Senior Research Associate

Canada China Business Council | Conseil d'affaires Canada-Chine; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading business council in Toronto is seeking a Senior Research Associate for a full-time position to support its research and communications efforts. The ideal candidate has 3-5 years of experience in policy research or communications, particularly related to Canada-Asia trade. This role involves conducting research, drafting documents, and analyzing trade data. The position follows a hybrid work model, and interested applicants should apply by September 30, 2025.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of relevant experience in policy research or strategic communications, especially in Canada-Asia trade.
• Ability to synthesize complex information quickly and clearly.
• Proven experience writing for executive-level audiences.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research on Canada-China economic relations.
• Draft high-quality written materials and edit them for accuracy.
• Analyze trade data to produce insights for CCBC members.

Skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Relevant research-based graduate degree

Educational background in international relations, economics, or public policy

Tools

Statistics Canada

UN Comtrade

Chinese government sources

Job description

Overview

Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is seeking a dedicated and skilled full-time Senior Research Associate to join its corporate head office in Toronto for a 12-month contract, with the possibility of extension and transition into a permanent role. This position is based in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment that requires the ability to manage multiple deadlines, competing priorities, and quick turnarounds.

The Senior Research Associate will report directly to the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer and work closely with CCBC's Communications Manager and regional teams. This role bridges policy-relevant research and strategic communications. You will support the Council's thought leadership work by conducting original research and its public positioning by producing high-impact written materials, conducting background research, preparing knowledge- and research-based content for presentations, and contributing to executive-level communications. This is a research-, writing-, and insight-driven role ideal for an experienced policy-savvy researcher and communicator who can synthesize complex trade, policy, and business issues into compelling, audience-friendly knowledge products and content.

Responsibilities

• Includes but not limited to:
• Conduct original research and monitor developments related to:
• Canada–China business and economic relations
• Trade policy, bilateral and multilateral agreements, and foreign investment trends
• Sector-specific dynamics impacting CCBC members (e.g., energy, natural resources, agriculture, education, financial services, life sciences)
• Canadian and Chinese government priorities, regulations, and policy documents relevant to CCBC members
• Canada's trade strategy and Asia Pacific policy as it relates to China
• Draft, edit, and fact-check high-quality written materials, including:
• Thought leadership pieces (policy briefs, op-eds, blogs, commentary)
• Executive speeches, talking points, and presentations
• Reports, briefings, backgrounders, and memos
• Web and social media content, in collaboration with the Communications Manager
• Analyze Canada-China trade and investment data to support research outputs, briefings, and sector-specific insights for CCBC members and stakeholders.
• Support CCBC's media and public relations efforts by preparing briefing notes, Q&A docs, and reactive messaging.
• Assist in preparing internal and external reports.
• Provide research support for CCBC's signature events, such as the Annual General Meeting and policy forums.
• Plan and organize educational events, webinars and learning programs for members, focused on key policy, trade, and sectoral developments.

Qualifications & Experience

• 3-5 years of relevant experience in policy research, strategic communications, public affairs, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in Canada–China or broader Canada–Asia trade, economic, and foreign policy issues gained through academic, professional, or policy-focused work.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information quickly and clearly.
• Experience working with trade, investment, or economic data—such as Statistics Canada, UN Comtrade, or Chinese government sources—with the ability to interpret and present key trends clearly.
• Educational background in international relations, economics, public policy, or business, with demonstrated focus on Asia-Pacific or China. A relevant research-based graduate degree is an asset.
• Proven experience writing and editing for executive-level audiences in a business, policy, or media environment.
• Exceptional English writing and editing skills are essential; proficiency in French is a strong asset but not required.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple deadlines and priorities with minimal supervision.

Work Environment & Location

This role follows a hybrid work model. Candidates based in Toronto are preferred given the location of CCBC's headquarters and core team activities; however, strong candidates based in Ottawa or other CCBC chapter centres in Canada (Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax) are also encouraged to apply.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, a one-page cover letter outlining their interest in the position and relevant experience, and a sample research paper—preferably related to the Council's work (e.g., Canada–China economic relations, the Chinese economy, or related topics)—to by end of day on

September 30, 2025

Please reference "Senior Research Associate" in the subject line.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

No phone calls, please.

Eligibility

You must be legally eligible to work for a Canadian company and provide a clear Criminal Background Check in order to be considered for this position.

Disclaimer

The Canada China Business Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

If contacted for an employment opportunity or testing, please advise Human Resources if you require accommodation.

About the Canada China Business Council (CCBC)

Founded in 1978, CCBC has been the leading voice of Canadian businesses in China for over 45 years, providing the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in China and Canada. In addition to its focused and practical services, CCBC is the voice of the Canadian business community on issues affecting Canada-China business, trade, and investment. Along with its corporate head office in Toronto, CCBC has chapters in Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic region, British Columbia, the Prairies, Beijing, and Shanghai. CCBC's network of staff offers programs and services in both Canada and China, and introduces members to opportunities in China's emerging markets. CCBC also operates a Chamber of Commerce in Beijing, offering a range of events and broad networking opportunities at the local level.