Created on:
June 4, 2024

The Policy Insights Forum Announces Marc Pion as the Think Tank’s Newest Senior Researcher

Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt
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Marc Pion serves as Capture and Proposals Manager, Defense at Bombardier Aerospace. In this role, Marc plays a central role in the growth and strategic direction of Bombardier Defense, launched in 2022 as a strategic expansion of its existing Specialized Aircraft division and now expected to become a $1 billion business unit.

 

Marc holds a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) from Harvard University where he specialized in Government and Political Economy and an MBA from Johns Hopkins University. Throughout the course of his studies in Cambridge and Washington, Marc led research on Canadian foreign policy, foreign political influence, and the impact of geopolitics on international investment strategies, supply chains, and market dynamics. His research work found application and value among political, financial services and consulting firms, where his insights proved instrumental in guiding strategic decisions for clients.

 

Over the years, Marc has led significant efforts in national & international security and foreign policy. He served as Regional Security Manager for Europe at Global Affairs Canada, where he led the strategic response and management of the Ukrainian war, managed Europe’s regional security team, generated reports based on existing intelligence, and represented Canada with Five Eyes allies. In a previous role as Senior Desk Officer focusing on Regional Strategy, Marc engaged in diplomatic and policy efforts with Southern and Eastern African nations, addressing geopolitical concerns and collaborating for the creation and implementation of measures enhancing regional stability and Canada’s foreign policy strategy toward the region.

 

Prior to his career in policy, defence, and security, Marc represented Canada and played NCAA Division I Lacrosse at Harvard and Johns Hopkins. He was drafted 59th overall in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), where he played professionally for the Philadelphia Wings.

 

At the PIF, Marc will provide valuable insights and research assistance to Geoffrey St. John, Program Director for the National Security Studies Program. His research contributions will focus on aspects of Canada’s foreign policy regarding national and global security concerns, evaluate the potential for a Canadian foreign intelligence service, and the state of relations with the United States and Five Eyes partners. Furthermore, Marc will take on the role of Vice President of Corporate Affairs for the PIF's Transatlantic Emerging Leaders (TEL), where he will lead industry thought-provoking conversations, events, and mentoring initiatives aimed at fostering emerging leadership.

"I am excited to join the PIF and its team members. I look forward to being a part of its unique contributions on issues of national security, defence, foreign service, and intelligence," said Marc. “I am thankful for the PIF's Board of Directors decision to select me as Vice President of Corporate Affairs within the TEL Program and as a PIF Senior Researcher.”

PIF Chair Goran Samuel Pesic said: " I'm pleased to announce Marc's appointment as a PIF Senior Researcher and Vice President of Corporate Affairs within the TEL Program. His contribution and unique understanding of strategically significant challenges and policy discussions facing Canada and its Allies are much anticipated by the PIF."

For more information on Marc’s appointment and his upcoming projects with the Policy Insights Forum, please contact us at info@policyinsights.ca.

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