Fifteen years ago, Jennifer Stewart took a leap of faith, leaving her full-time job to pursue a lifelong ambition—entrepreneurship. What started as JS Communications has since evolved into Syntax Strategic, an Ottawa-based full-service communications firm specializing in media relations, strategic communications, and public affairs.
The name Syntax—defined as the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences—was suggested by Stewart’s husband and perfectly encapsulates the company’s essence: crafting powerful messaging that resonates.
‘We have the privilege of working with some of Canada’s leading organizations at a very strategic level, developing how they communicate with Canadians. Our mission is to deliver impactful, values-driven, quality work that makes a difference,’ says Stewart, Founder and CEO of Syntax Strategic.
With offices in Carp and downtown Ottawa, Syntax boasts a team of 20 employees and over a dozen associates, servicing clients across the government, private, non-profit, and academic sectors in Canada and North America.
Stewart has witnessed a drastic shift in the media and communications industry since starting her firm in 2010. Today, organizations must be far more strategic—honing targeted messaging, managing reputations, navigating crises, and leading advocacy efforts.
“Strategic communications have never been more critical. With so many platforms, brands need to be hyper-strategic about how they communicate and who they’re reaching. Shrinking newsrooms make media outreach even more challenging,” she explains. Stewart also advocates for ethical AI integration in communications, seeing its potential to enhance agility and efficiency.
Syntax’s comprehensive service offerings include Strategic Communications, Government Relations & Public Affairs, Crisis Management, Marketing, Design & Video Production, Municipal Branding, and Media Relations. Its practice areas, led by award-winning professionals, span health, sport, media relations, and municipal branding.
ABOVE: Jennifer Stewart talking about energy policy with Bob Larocque at the Canadian Energy Marketers Association 2025 Conference. (Photo: Courtesy Syntax Strategic)
Among its services, Strategic Communications is most in-demand, as organizations increasingly recognize the powerful role communication plays in revenue, growth, and reputation. Government Relations, which closely aligns with strategic communications, is the firm’s second most sought-after service, as associations and organizations need expert policy advocacy.
Stewart also notes the growing demand for Media Relations, as organizations strive to shape national narratives and position themselves in meaningful conversations. Syntax offers formal and ad-hoc media training to prepare clients for interviews and press engagement.
Syntax Strategic has earned its reputation as a leader in communications by prioritizing meaningful and effective strategies. With a personalized approach and a deep understanding of messaging, the firm builds lasting partnerships across a wide range of industries.
Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, Syntax tailors its solutions to align with each client’s unique values and objectives. Its diverse expertise—including media relations, government advocacy, crisis management, and branding—ensures organizations receive strategic, results-driven guidance.
ABOVE: Jennifer Stewart (pictured right) at the Queen’s Feminist Leadership in Politics Conference (QFLIP) in January 2025. (Photo: Corey Beazer)
At the heart of Syntax Strategic is a workplace culture centred on collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. This foundation enables both employees and clients to thrive while fostering an environment where creative problem-solving leads to impactful results.
Syntax Strategic’s dedication to excellence is reflected in its steady growth and seven-figure revenues, demonstrating the firm’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality work and strong client relationships.
“Since day one, my philosophy has been to treat every client like they’re your only client. People want to feel heard, responded to quickly, and supported. Our strong client relationships set us apart,” says Jennifer Stewart, Founder and CEO.
Beyond exceptional service, Syntax places a high priority on quality assurance, timely delivery, and ongoing client support—ensuring organizations receive the strategic expertise they need to succeed.
One of Syntax’s defining strengths is its predominantly women-led team, complemented by a few bold new male colleagues, which thrives on collaboration, strong leadership, and creative problem-solving.
“We’ve cultivated an environment that fosters learning, creativity, inclusion, and strong leadership,” Stewart shares.
Syntax maintains an impressive 75% employee retention rate and embraces flexible work policies, balancing productivity with remote work options and a two-day in-office requirement.
Starting Syntax at just 25 years old, Stewart considers herself an “accidental entrepreneur.” Through grit and determination, the Carleton University journalism graduate has built one of Canada’s most trusted strategic communications firms.
“I’ve learned more about myself through this journey than I ever would have otherwise. There are highs, lows, and countless tests. It’s true—you learn more from failures than successes. It’s been an evolution in resilience, risk-taking, and believing in Syntax’s potential.”
Balancing personal and professional life has been her biggest challenge, but she credits her husband and talented team for their unwavering support.
ABOVE: Jennifer Stewart appears as a guest commentator on CBC News to break down the final days of the federal election campaign. (Screengrab: Syntax Strategic)
Her achievements reflect her drive: named one of the ‘Top 25 People in the Capital’ (2014, 2016) by Ottawa Life Magazine, recipient of the ‘Forty Under 40’ award (2017), and a finalist for the 2019 Businesswoman of the Year award. Stewart is also a communications expert for CBC and has weighed in as a crisis communications expert on CTV and CityNews Ottawa.
Beyond Syntax, she is a serial entrepreneur who co-owns Ottawa Valley Grain Products and co-founded The Honest Talk, a female-focused news and networking platform. She sits on the boards of Microbix Biosystems Inc., The Boys and Girls Club (BGC) Canada, The Ottawa Hospital Foundation, and the Village of Carp BIA.
Despite economic uncertainty, Syntax has never been busier—thanks to organizations’ growing need for clarity amid the noise. While expansion is on the horizon, Stewart sees Syntax thriving as a mid-sized firm rather than pursuing nationwide offices.
“A decade ago, success meant having a Syntax office in every major Canadian city. But I’ve learned that true success is building a strong client portfolio, working with organizations whose values align with ours, and making an impact.”
Interestingly, Syntax hasn’t pursued industry awards, prioritizing excellence over external recognition. “I’ve always believed that our work should speak for itself. We’re happy being behind the scenes, ensuring our clients shine—that, to me, is the greatest reward,” Stewart concludes.
For more information about Syntax Strategic, visit www.syntaxstrategic.ca.
Header image: Lindsey Gibeau
