National Security Boardroom Brief Featuring Jody Thomas

Event Overview

In today’s volatile world, geopolitical shifts, national security considerations, and economic uncertainty are reshaping how Canadian organizations operate and grow.

To help Canadian industry leaders stay ahead of the curve, the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI) is proud to launch the Boardroom Intelligence Brief—a new series designed to deliver strategic insights at the intersection of global affairs, security, and business.

Join us for the inaugural session on November 19, featuring Jody Thomas, former National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister and Deputy Minister of National Defence.

From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, enjoy wine, cheese, and networking as Jody shares sharp insights on current geopolitical dynamics and how they are shaping Canada’s economic landscape and business decision-making.

This exclusive event is tailored for senior executives and decision-makers looking to sharpen their strategic foresight in a rapidly changing world.

Jody Thomas, Former National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister

Jody Thomas is a Canadian public servant who has served as the national security advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada since 2022. Over her distinguished career in the Public Service of Canada, she has held several senior roles, including deputy minister for the Department of National Defence, commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, and chief operating officer of Passport Canada. Thomas also served as an officer in the Naval Reserve. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Arts from Carleton University.

Moderator

Ian Fraser Hirchfield BSc OBE

During his 25-year career as a British foreign service officer, Ian specialised in national security, counter-intelligence, the Middle East and Asia. Overseas Ian has served in Libya, Iraq, India, Ukraine, Lebanon, Morocco, Cyprus and Belgium. In London, he was head of asymmetric risk for the 2012 Olympic Games and held senior positions in counter-terrorism and operational training. From 2014-2018 Ian led the Security Intelligence Branch (SIB) at NATO Headquarters, responsible for counter-intelligence and counter-espionage across the alliance. Currently Ian is a board-level advisor for a number of companies and institutions, including Deloitte and the University of Ottawa, and is non-executive director for cyber and information assurance at Moneyport Bank. In the charitable sector, Ian sits on the board of Ottawa Therapy Dogs and guides their governance and fundraising. Ian holds a Bachelor of Science honours degree in Applied Economics from the University of Plymouth and was appointed Order of the British Empire (OBE) by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2012. Ian is married to Amanda Strohan, a Director General at Global Affairs Canada.

Agenda