💡Alumni Spotlight: Mitch Davidson (2013-2014)

With our cohort's time in OLIP now wrapping up, we were very grateful to have the opportunity to meet with Mitch Davidson, an OLIP alumnus whose career has spanned government, politics, public affairs, and policy development at the highest levels of Ontario’s public sector.

During our conversation, Mitch reflected on his time in OLIP and discussed the diverse career path he has pursued since completing the programme. He answered our many questions on current affairs and governance and also shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive experience across policy, politics, and public affairs.

One of Mitch's most significant takeaways from OLIP was learning how to evaluate ideas based on their merit rather than their source. He explained that every political party and elected representative is ultimately working toward improving the lives of Ontarians, even if they have different approaches to achieving that goal. Through OLIP, he developed the ability to think beyond partisan politics and critically assess the objectives, perspectives, and intended outcomes behind policy ideas. This approach has remained central to his work and has contributed to his reputation as a strong policy thinker and strategist.

Mitch recalled a particularly meaningful experience during his internship when he helped support the passage of the Hawkins Gignac Act alongside MPP Ernie Hardeman. The legislation made carbon monoxide detectors mandatory in Ontario and provided a practical example of how thoughtful policy development can create tangible improvements in people's lives. He noted that the lessons learned through this experience continue to inform his work today.

Following OLIP, Mitch built an impressive career across both the public and private sectors. He went on to lead the provincial policy department for the Progressive Conservative Party and Premier Ford before serving in several senior leadership positions, including Vice President at StrategyCorp, Chief of Staff at iGaming Ontario, Director of Special Projects in Cabinet Office, and a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Canada Institute. He currently serves as Vice President of Policy at Enterprise Public Affairs, where he conducts policy analysis, develops white papers for clients, and authors The Policy Shop, a Substack focused on provincial policy ideas and discussions.

When reflecting on accomplishments he is particularly proud of, Mitch spoke about his experience being seconded twice to Cabinet Office to lead the mandate letter writing process from the civil service side. Having previously participated in the same process from a partisan perspective, the opportunity gave him a rare and comprehensive understanding of how government priorities are established and implemented. He described the experience as both unique and rewarding, providing him with a perspective on provincial policymaking that few professionals have the opportunity to develop.

Mitch offered thoughtful advice for students and young professionals entering the workforce. He acknowledged that breaking into the job market can be challenging, particularly in the current environment, but emphasized that initiative and a willingness to learn remain among the most valuable qualities a candidate can demonstrate. He encouraged current interns to continue developing their skills, remain curious, and take advantage of the strength of the OLIP alumni network, emphasizing that alumni are often eager to provide advice, mentorship, and support.

For those looking for recommendations, Mitch encouraged everyone to explore the Oro-Medonte and Barrie region of Ontario, highlighting its excellent camping, fishing, hiking, golf, and live music opportunities. Among his favourite books, he recommended Let's Go (So We Can Get Back) by Jeff Tweedy and The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach. For those interested in public policy and current affairs, he suggested following American Compass and Commonplace to better understand contemporary policy discussions in the United States. He also recommended his own Substack, The Policy Shop, for readers interested in provincial policy ideas and analysis.

We are incredibly grateful to Mitch for taking the time to meet with us and share his experiences. His reflections on evaluating ideas thoughtfully, embracing opportunities to learn, and taking initiative throughout one's career offered valuable insights for both our time in OLIP and our professional journeys beyond the programme!