Meet Our Team
Kristina Martin, Founder
Kristina is a nationally recognized government relations and communications leader with over 15 years’ experience working in politics, government relations, and communications. She’s a natural connector who’s driven by breaking down barriers and building trust between the public and private sector.
Kristina has advised clients across sectors including science and technology, skilled trades, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, public safety and more. In addition to consulting, Kristina has served as Director of Communications and Public Affairs for Canada’s largest science and technology skills training organization, Actua. Her career path was inspired by her first job in politics, working in a federal party leader’s office, and for a Member of Parliament.
Kristina has helped secure millions of dollars in federal and provincial funding for her clients. She understands the intricate structures of government, including what levers need to be pulled to accomplish her client’s goals. She is considered a go-to organizer of political engagement events that make a mark.
When she’s not at Kit, Kristina serves on the Board of the Canadian Advocacy Network. She is also a former President of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Ottawa Board of Directors.
Kristina holds a B.A. in Political Science, an MSc. Strategic Public Relations and Communication Management, as well as a Master’s in Political Management.
Jennifer Harnden, Senior Director
Jennifer Harnden is an executive-level writer and public affairs strategist.
Before joining the consulting world, Jennifer worked on Parliament Hill for 13 years in senior policy roles, gaining a reputation as the go-to speechwriter for a number of politicians.
Jennifer has ghostwritten and collaborated on countless editorials and articles featured in Canada’s most-read publications, drafted compelling speeches for executives and parliamentarians, and has worked with several stakeholders to see their legislative priorities realized. Jennifer is a firm believer in the importance of the free exchange of ideas and the power of words to bring people together and ultimately affect change.
Jennifer previously served as Director of Policy to the Leader of the Official Opposition in the Senate, specializing in law and criminal justice policy. She is most proud of her work on protections for victims of intimate partner violence, legislation enshrining pay fairness for trade contractors, and collaborating with health and mental health experts to develop critical safeguards on matters where health intersects with criminal law.
Outside of work, Jennifer is passionate about maintaining an active lifestyle and spending quality time outdoors with her husband and two young boys.
Jennifer holds an Honours Degree in Criminology from the University of Ottawa and a Post-Graduate Certificate from Seneca x York University in Corporate Communications and Public Relations.
Ellie Kozak, Consultant
Ellie Kozak is a former Parliament Hill staffer with a passion for building strong relationships with clients and navigating the ever-changing political area.
She previously served as a Senior Communications Advisor for a Member of Parliament, where she learned the art of strategic communications, gained a timely understanding of the federal political scene, and responded to the fast-paced demands of working in a legislative office. She is well versed in social media management, writing for a variety of audiences, decoding emerging policy and funding opportunities, and public affairs monitoring.
Ellie holds a Honours B.A. in Political Science and Social Justice and Peace Studies from King’s University College, a Master of Arts in Political Science from Western University, and most
recently completed her Master’s in Political Management from Carleton University. Her academic journey has instilled in her a strong foundation in research, critical thinking, and policy analysis, as well as a deep curiosity about how institutions shape the private sector and public life.
Reem Wahab, Account Coordinator
Reem Wahab started her career in public affairs right out of university. Prior to joining Kit, Reem supported clients in multiple sectors including health, science and technology, public safety, and environment, delivering results and fostering positive client relationships with an enthusiastic approach.
Having fully committed herself to the world of public affairs, Reem prides herself on being a dependable point of contact for clients. She approaches every task with a unique client-centric mindset, offering a proactive and engaging approach to meet their needs at every stage.
Graduating from the University of Ottawa with an Honours B.Soc. in Conflict Studies and Human Rights, Reem blends academic insight into problem solving with practical expertise.
Reem is fluent in two languages, and has volunteered in Lebanon teaching English to Syrian refugees at a local school.
Join Our Team
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Join Our Team *
Senior Consultant, Government Relations
We’re currently hiring for a Senior Consultant, Government Relations.
What you'll do
Serve as the day-to-day, client-facing lead on a portfolio of files, including leading client calls and presenting deliverables
Develop and execute federal and provincial government relations strategies, stakeholder engagement plans, and advocacy campaigns
Identify and build relationships with key stakeholders, including political and departmental government officials
Organize and lead Hill engagement, including meetings and lobby days
Identify funding opportunities for clients and develop strategies to secure them
Monitor political, economic, and regulatory developments and advise clients on potential impacts
Conduct policy analysis, including assessment of proposed legislation and regulations
Contribute to new business development and help grow the firm's client roster
Support and mentor junior team members on client files
What we're looking for
Minimum 5 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field
Demonstrated experience building and managing relationships with government officials at the political and/or departmental level
Strong understanding of federal and/or provincial legislative and regulatory processes
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex policy issues for clients
A track record of managing client relationships with professionalism, responsiveness, and sound judgment
Comfort working independently and managing multiple files and deadlines at once
Based in Ottawa, or willing to relocate, given the hybrid in-office requirement
What we offer
Competitive salary, commensurate with experience. The target salary range is $115,000–$135,000, with flexibility for exceptional candidates.
Competitive group benefits package
Summer Fridays off (July and August)
Three weeks' paid vacation
A bright, well-located downtown Ottawa office
Hybrid work model, combining in-office collaboration with the flexibility to work from home
Direct mentorship and growth opportunities within a firm that is actively expanding
The chance to work closely with a small, senior team on high-impact client files
How to apply
Please send your resume and an email outlining your interest and relevant experience to kristina@kitpublicaffairs.ca, with the subject line “Senior Consultant Application – [Your Name]."