Interview with Michael Wernick

Interview with Michael Wernick

Author: Canadian Government Executive December 21, 2021 Duration: 18:15

In this episode of CGE Radio, we are pleased to welcome Mr. Michael Wernick, senior strategic advisor at MNP and adjunct Professor at Carleton University. Of course, Michael is no stranger to our listeners; he was Clerk of the Privy Council from 2016-2019 and, before that, held a number of leadership positions during his 38-year public service career.

Michael talks to us about his recent book, Governing Canada: A Guide to the Tradecraft of Politics.  In its pages, Michael offers strategic advice to future prime ministers, ministers, and deputy ministers, based on his observations from a most unique vantage point as the Clerk. He expands on this work in his conversation with us, and talks to us about how the role of the Clerk, the budget process, and expectations of government have evolved over time. He also shares some thoughts about what he might write next. Please give it a listen!


For decades, Canadian Government Executive has been the essential print and digital publication for those navigating the complex machinery of the public service. Canadian Government Executive Radio extends that legacy into audio, creating a direct channel for conversation about the policies, technologies, and leadership shaping governance from town halls to Parliament Hill. This podcast moves beyond press releases and official statements to explore the real-world implementation of ideas. Each episode features candid discussions with deputy ministers, city managers, IT directors, and frontline innovators who are tasked with turning legislation into action. You’ll hear about the challenges of digital transformation, the intersection of cybersecurity and citizen services, and the evolving nature of public sector leadership in a time of rapid change. It’s a forum for the people who build, manage, and protect the programs that define Canadian society. By focusing on the practical expertise of senior officials and the technologists enabling modern government, this series provides context and clarity that you won’t find in daily news coverage. Tune in for a nuanced perspective on how decisions are made, how technology is adopted, and how public service executives are steering their organizations toward the future. This is where policy meets practice, offering listeners an insider’s understanding of the forces that govern.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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