Shannon Sutton

Shannon Sutton is a seasoned expert in gender equality and inclusion, currently serving as a Senior Program Officer for Climate Resilient Food Systems at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). With extensive experience in various leadership roles, Shannon has contributed to significant projects focusing on gender justice, including leading teams for the Artificial Intelligence for Development Africa initiative and gender programs with IDRC. Shannon’s expertise also encompasses consulting roles that involve strategic planning for organizations like the Mawazo Institute and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Previous positions include oversight of the Think Tank Initiative at IDRC, management of communication strategies at Fairtrade Canada, and pioneering business development initiatives in fair trade contexts. Shannon holds a PhD in International Development from the University of London, alongside an M.A. from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University.