Kelly Bowden

Kelly Bowden is a collaborative leader with over a decade of experience managing strategic communications, public affairs and cultivating strong stakeholder relationships. She leads the Corporate Communications Division at IDRC and works in concert with programs and policy leads across the institution to tell the story of IDRC’s impact.

She has implemented innovative campaigns that have driven meaningful results for numerous non-profits working in complex global environments, including at Oxfam, the Fairtrade Foundation, the Otesha Project and Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. She has held several senior leadership positions across organizations, including as Deputy Executive Director at Oxfam Canada. Her work has covered a range of sustainable development issues from climate change and labour rights to gender equality and maternal health, all with the view of strengthening organizations’ visibility and trust. Kelly holds a degree in Political Science and International Development from Queen's University.