Hill+Knowlton Strategies (H+K) is pleased to announce the addition of Matthew Gibson as Senior Vice President and National Energy + Industrials Sector lead. In this role, he will support significant national files and a bi-coastal integrated team of public relations and public affairs consultants. Matthew will replace the previous Sector Lead Will Stewart, who has continued to serve in an Acting Lead role since taking on the role of National Public Affairs + Advocacy Lead at H+K.
“Having spent the past 15 years working within the provincial, federal, and North American energy sectors, Matthew is a well-recognized leader in the sector and will be an incredible asset to our clients,” said Sheila Wisniewski, President and CEO of H+K Canada. “He has worked with some of the largest energy companies in North America to build and maintain social and political license to operate, which is critical in the sector.”
Matthew brings a variety of experience across the industry. Prior to joining H+K, Matthew led the Ontario Practice Group at another national government relations and strategic communications firm. He also brings extensive experience working on the client side for over a decade in Government Relations at Enbridge and Union Gas. Matthew started his career in government for Ontario’s then-Minister of Energy, the Honourable John Baird, as well as for former Progressive Conservative Opposition Leader, now Mayor of Toronto, John Tory.
“I joined H+K because of its commitment to values and culture, and the opportunity to work with clients across the country and around the globe as we navigate a critical time for the sector and its many indirect participants. We are at a pivotal point in our country’s history, where we are seeing government and the public taking an activist role in business and the economy. That has elevated the importance of public relations and public affairs, and I’m excited to support clients as they navigate this new environment.”
Matt is very active in his local community, and is involved in various charitable organizations and causes surrounding the preservation and conservation of wetlands, protecting and supporting victims of domestic abuse, as well as leading multiple corporate and record-setting campaign efforts on behalf of the United Way Greater Toronto.