Hey, I'm
Jacky Zhang.
I turn complex data into clear strategic decisions.
Strategic insights leader and Manager in MNP's Economics consulting practice in Vancouver, BC. For 8+ years I've helped executives across public and private sectors turn complex data into evidence-based decisions. I also design and build AI-powered web apps and automations for small businesses — practical tools that ship in days, not quarters.
My Expertise
Economic Impact & Research
Cost-benefit, scenario analysis, and Input-Output modeling for capital projects, business operations, and policy decisions.
Strategy & Advisory
Executive-level recommendations grounded in market intelligence, competitive analysis, and ROI modeling for high-stakes decisions.
AI-Enabled Tools
I design and ship AI-powered web apps for consultants and small businesses — Python, Claude, and lightweight automation stacks.
Data Storytelling
Lead instructor for MNP's Data Visualization & Storytelling course. I turn analytics into clear, executive-ready narratives.
About Me
Visit My LinkedInI'm currently Manager, Consulting — Economics at MNP in Vancouver, where I lead a team of consultants and data analysts delivering strategy and insights engagements for senior executives across public and private sectors. I lead MNP's internal AI tooling initiative for the Economics practice, directing development of an AI-powered Survey Questionnaire Builder now used daily across the firm.
Before MNP, I spent five years at Qatalyst Research Group — first as Economist, later as Head of Research — leading a team of five researchers and partnering with the executive team to grow the business by integrating AI into research workflows and shipping custom AI tools the team used day-to-day. Building tools that actually get used starts with understanding the workflow — then designing software that fits how people already work.
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University of TorontoM.A. Economics
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University of British ColumbiaB.A. Economics & Mathematics
Live Projects & Publications
MacroInference AI
Conversational web app that lets businesses, consultants, government economic development offices, and industry associations generate scenario-based economic impact estimates for capital projects, business operations, and industry sectors across Canadian provinces. Built end-to-end with Python + Claude.
Open the toolBC Tourism & Hospitality Employment Tracker
Province-wide, monthly-updated dashboard tracking 15 indicators across 8 BC economic regions. Used by industry associations, the provincial government, hotels, and DMOs to inform labour market decisions. I led and built this tool as Head of Research at Qatalyst Research Group.
View on go2HRVI & Northern BC Economic Dashboards
Two enterprise-facing regional economic dashboards I directed, commissioned by the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance and the Northern Development Initiative Trust. Used by governments, businesses, and industry stakeholders. Currently leading these at MNP.
View dashboardsGibraltar Mine — Economic Impact
Multi-year economic impact study modeling GDP, employment, and tax contributions for the Gibraltar copper mine — reflecting on 20 years of successful operations and looking forward to 20 more. The published report supported industry communications and regulatory engagement. I led this study at MNP.
View reportSaskatchewan Snowmobiling Industry — Economic Impact
Modeled the economic contribution of Saskatchewan's snowmobiling industry to the provincial economy — including spending by residents and out-of-province visitors, snowmobile rental and guiding services, powersport dealers, clubs, and supporting organizations. I led this study at MNP.
View reportVancouver Tourism Events — Economic Impact
Quantified the economic and social value of business, sporting, and cultural events supported by Destination Vancouver in 2024 — including marquee events like the Taylor Swift Eras Tour and their spin-off impacts on the local economy. The study estimated return on investment for every public dollar spent. I led this study at MNP.
View reportGet In Touch
Have a strategy engagement, an economic impact study, or an AI tool in mind? Send me a note — I'll get back within a couple of days.