Paul Johnston

Public Policy Principal

Paul Johnston (MPA) is a seasoned public policy and government relations advisor with more than three decades of experience working for all three orders of government, including 25 years with the Halifax Regional Municipality, most recently as Managing Director of Government Relations and External Affairs. He has held front-line and senior leadership positions in research and policy development, program delivery, intergovernmental and partner relations, strategic planning, and policy analysis.

From Paul’s extensive municipal experience, he brings expertise in emergency management planning and policy, accessibility and anti‑racism legislation, grants and contribution frameworks, and major public safety reviews, including provincial police servicing and fire services. Paul has experience supporting municipalities and partners to navigate First Nations service agreements and accords, developing homelessness and affordable housing strategies, assessing the practical impacts of provincial and federal legislation and budget direction, and addressing the provincial/municipal relationship in infrastructure development, local planning and transportation. Known for his clear analysis, strategic advice, and collaborative approach, he helps councils, senior staff, and community partners understand what is changing, what it means for them, and how to respond with practical, defensible plans and policies.

Paul holds an Honours Degree with a double major in Political Science and History from Acadia University and a Masters in Public Administration, with a specialty in local government policy and management, from Dalhousie University.