Shawn brings a wealth of media and communications experience with a focus on energy and climate change issues. As senior counsel, Shawn consults with Sussex clients on strategic communications, media relations, and stakeholder engagement.

A retired journalist, Shawn has collaborated with the Sussex team on successful media strategies; authored opinion articles for placement in newspapers and participated in and moderated panel discussions. He has supported clients in their pursuit of regulatory approval and funding for clean energy projects, clean tech investments and infrastructure developments. He has an extensive network of media, business, and government contacts to inform his work on energy and climate issues. 

Prior to joining Sussex, Shawn had a 40-year career as a reporter, working for The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, and The Canadian Press as a national business correspondent. For the last 13 years, he focused on energy and climate policy and economics. In his 20-year stint at The Globe, he also served as parliamentary bureau chief in Ottawa and the paper’s New York City correspondent. 

Shawn holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from Carleton University and a BA from the University of Alberta. He previously taught reporting courses at Carleton University’s School of Journalism. He is the former president and current vice president of World Press Freedom Canada, a volunteer advocacy group. He served for several years as a director - including as board chair - at a local charitable foundation. In addition to his role with Sussex, Shawn continues to write and edit for various publications and organizations.  

Shawn is an avid traveler, reader, hiker and Nordic skier. He is a native of Philadelphia and lives in Ottawa with his wife. He loves spending time with his grandchildren.