Janel Smith

Janel Smith, PhD, serves as the Program Manager for Social Research and Data Analysis, Community Investments, and Social Policy (Acting) at York Region since April 2021, where responsibilities include leading cross-functional projects, advising on policy development, and establishing compliance frameworks. Prior experience includes roles as Senior Policy and Program Advisor at the Ontario Public Service, focusing on public health policy in the Ministry of Health, and Senior Associate at The Leadership Alliance Inc., where leadership training in complex global contexts was emphasized. Janel has also worked as a Senior Associate at the Security Governance Group, managed research projects at the Canadian Social Economy Hub, and contributed to the Review of International Studies Journal. Academically, Janel holds a PhD in International Relations from the London School of Economics, with research centered on civil society and peace-building, alongside a Master's in Dispute Resolution and an Honours Bachelor’s in International Relations.