Joan Wright

Biography

A seasoned communications strategist, Joan Wright’s professional mantra is, “People and Partnerships – PR the Wright Way!” Joan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica, and two diplomas from Algonquin College in Television Broadcasting and Public Relations. She has over 25 years work experience in a variety of geographical locations, London, England; George Town, Cayman Islands; New York, United States; and Ottawa, Canada.

Joan has a proven track record in shaping the strategies and tactics organizations need to achieve their goals. Organizational change takes time, so Joan’s strategic-planning philosophy for clients comes from a Jamaican proverb, “Patient man ride donkey!” She has worked in a range of industries leading communications projects, from a campaign to hire more diverse staff at Corrections Canada to the e-learning program launched at the North American Indigenous Games for the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport. Joan currently works as a senior public affairs advisor for the Government of Canada.

Adept at conceptualizing and executing projects, Joan describes herself as an opportunity broker with a keen eye for leveraging win-win partnerships. She is a team leader who approaches all volunteer roles with gravitas leavened by laughter! Joan has served as president of the Algonquin College Students’ Association, and most recently, president of the Canadian Public Relations Society, Ottawa-Gatineau chapter.  In addition, she has volunteered her communications skills to organizations such as Equal Voice and Women in Communications and Technology. Joan is a Board member of her son’s school council and vice president of her neighbourhood community association.