Michael Edwards

Campaigns & Creative Practice Lead and Creative Director

Michael Edwards is an award-winning creative director and digital strategist with 15+ years of experience at the intersection of marketing, advertising, and public affairs. He serves as Practice Lead & Creative Director of Compass Rose's Campaigns & Creative agency.

He founded Canada's first dedicated digital public affairs agency — which was later acquired — and has since led creative and digital teams at some of the country's top public affairs firms. Throughout his career, he has developed sophisticated campaigns for companies navigating complex issues, industry and professional associations, and non-profits.

Deeply committed to advancing the profession, Michael designed and taught Canada's first post-secondary curriculum in Digital Government Relations at Seneca College. He continues to push the boundaries of the discipline, actively integrating AI-driven tools and emerging technologies into campaign strategy and creative execution — building toward a smarter, faster, and more effective future for public affairs.

His work has earned recognition from leading industry organizations, including the Campaigns & Elections Reed Award for Best International Campaign and Best International Firm, as well as honours from the Canadian Public Relations Society.

Outside of work, Michael is an avid marathoner and a passionate home cook — a love of food and flavour that led him to launch his own line of healthy seasonings.