Director General,
Client Enablement
Laural Porth-Jones is the Director General, Client Enablement for the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). Laural joined NRC IRAP in 2012 as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) and subsequently regional director, Prairies. She has worked as the executive director, Prairies and moved to national director general roles as part of the COVID-19 response for NRC IRAP.
Laural brings a breadth and depth of knowledge to her role, underpinned by extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. Starting her NRC career as an ITA for NRC IRAP, the position gave her a strong background in understanding the program from all sides, especially that of the small and medium enterprises that form NRC IRAP's client base. Prior to joining the NRC, Laural worked as a consultant specializing in creating value through management advisory services, and held senior international roles at Microsoft Corporation and several other technology enterprises. Her strong background in strategy, operations and finance is a valuable asset in her current role as Director General, Client Enablement.
Laural holds a Master of Arts degree and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba as well as a Business Fundamentals Certificate from the University of Indiana, Kelley School of Business.