As an Ontario Government Relations Practice Director, Mackenzie is well-versed in legislative affairs, strategic communications, and stakeholder relations.  

Prior to Sussex, she held various positions in different jurisdictions, including the Ontario Government, the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick, the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, and the University of Toronto Press.

After being selected to participate in the Ontario Legislative Internship program, Mackenzie went on to work for the Ontario Ombudsman, focusing on municipal policy. She has served as Senior Advisor to the Ontario Government House Leader and had roles in the Ministry of Economic Development and Job Creation, and most recently the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

Mackenzie is known for her comprehensive knowledge of the legislative process and sound communications strategies that give her the ability to tackle issues with the support of a variety of stakeholders. Mackenzie has proven writing skills – recognized as a recipient of the Louis Robichaud Award for Best Essay in Canadian Politics and the William Vaughn Prize for Best Essay in Legal Studies. This is in addition to being an accomplished public speaker – representing the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association at the national level.

In addition to her work in politics, Mackenzie serves on the board of the Loran Foundation, the Program Advisory Committee for DemocracyxChange at Ryerson University, and is a volunteer for the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto.  

Mackenzie holds a Bachelor’s Degree from St. Thomas University in Political Science and French certifications from Université Laval and Université de Montréal.

Outside of work, Mackenzie is always exploring new hobbies. She likes to read, play tennis, volunteer at Sick Kids and the Loran Foundation, and is an unofficial ambassador for the New Brunswick tourism board.