Tony Staffieri – The Visionary CEO Driving Rogers Communications into a New Era of Connectivity
From Chartered Accountant to Canada’s Leading Telecom Innovator
Tony Staffieri is a name that has become synonymous with leadership, transformation, and resilience in Canada’s telecommunications industry. As the President and Chief Executive Officer of Rogers Communications, he has steered the company through one of its most defining eras, including the massive Rogers–Shaw merger that reshaped the competitive landscape of Canadian communications. Known for his strong financial acumen and disciplined leadership, Staffieri continues to influence how Canadians connect, communicate, and access digital technology in the modern world.
Born and raised in Canada with Italian heritage, Tony’s professional journey from a financial expert to a national business leader is a story of focus, adaptability, and long-term vision. His approach combines strategic growth with operational efficiency — a blend that has made him a key figure in Canadian business circles.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anthony “Tony” Staffieri |
| Current Role | President & CEO, Rogers Communications Inc. |
| Education | Bachelor of Business Administration (Schulich School of Business, York University) |
| Professional Designation | Chartered Accountant (FCPA, FCA) |
| Career Start | Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) |
| Major Companies | PwC, Celestica International, Bell Canada Enterprises, Rogers Communications |
| Board Roles | Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Toronto Metropolitan University |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Italian descent |
| Total Compensation (2023) | Approx. CAD $12.97 million |
| Key Achievement | Leadership of Rogers–Shaw Merger |
| Known For | Strategic vision, financial discipline, innovation in telecom leadership |
Tony Staffieri’s Early Career and Education
Academic Foundations
Tony Staffieri’s educational path began at the prestigious Schulich School of Business at York University, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a deep understanding of corporate finance, strategy, and leadership. After graduation, he obtained his Chartered Accountant designation (FCPA, FCA), which added professional credibility and enhanced his financial expertise.
This combination of business education and accounting qualification gave Tony the tools to navigate complex financial landscapes. His focus on excellence and precision became the hallmark of his leadership style, setting him apart from many executives in Canada’s corporate world.
Professional Beginnings at PwC
Tony launched his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), one of the world’s leading professional services firms. Rising to the position of partner, he spent several years advising multinational corporations on financial management, auditing, and performance improvement. This experience built his reputation as a skilled strategist with a sharp eye for both numbers and people.
His years at PwC prepared him for the transition to executive leadership roles in larger corporate environments, where his analytical skills and disciplined mindset would drive transformation at a national scale.
Rise to Prominence in Corporate Canada
Leadership Roles at Celestica and Bell
After leaving PwC in 1999, Tony joined Celestica International Inc., a global electronics manufacturing firm. At Celestica, he held senior financial positions that expanded his leadership experience beyond auditing and into corporate management. He then transitioned to Bell Canada Enterprises (BCE), where he served as Senior Vice President of Finance.
These roles broadened his understanding of large-scale operations, business strategy, and technological integration. Working within two of Canada’s most recognized corporations shaped his ability to manage both growth and disruption — qualities that later defined his leadership at Rogers Communications.
Joining Rogers Communications
In 2012, Tony Staffieri joined Rogers Communications as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Over the next nine years, he played an essential role in reshaping the company’s financial structure, ensuring stability, and enhancing shareholder value. His results-driven mindset helped Rogers strengthen its financial performance and expand its media and wireless divisions.
As CFO, he built a reputation for accountability, transparency, and innovation. His ability to balance strategic vision with fiscal responsibility earned him respect across Canada’s business community and positioned him as a natural successor for Rogers’ top leadership role.
Becoming CEO and Leading the Rogers–Shaw Merger
Transition to Chief Executive Officer
Tony Staffieri was appointed interim CEO of Rogers Communications on November 16, 2021, during a crucial phase in the company’s history. Following his exceptional performance in stabilizing operations, he was confirmed as President and CEO on January 10, 2022.
Taking over one of the largest telecom firms in Canada during a leadership transition was no small feat. Tony approached the role with clarity and confidence, focusing on unifying teams, strengthening customer trust, and driving long-term network investments.
The Rogers–Shaw Merger: A Defining Moment
Under Tony’s leadership, Rogers successfully completed the Shaw Communications merger, one of the largest corporate integrations in Canadian history. This monumental deal expanded Rogers’ reach across Western Canada, enhanced competition in telecommunications, and promised to bring faster connectivity to millions of Canadians.
While the merger drew both praise and scrutiny, Tony’s management of the process displayed balance — pushing for innovation and growth while addressing regulatory and public expectations. His leadership during this merger solidified his status as one of Canada’s most influential CEOs.
Vision, Leadership, and Impact
Commitment to Innovation
Tony Staffieri’s tenure at Rogers is defined by a commitment to technological progress. He has championed investment in 5G networks, rural connectivity, and digital transformation across the company’s services. His focus on improving customer experience aligns with his belief that “connectivity is the foundation of modern life.”
Community and Governance
Beyond the corporate world, Tony serves on the Board of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) and is the Honorary Chair of the Board of Governors at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). These roles reflect his broader vision of connecting business, education, and community development. His leadership extends beyond profit margins — it’s about empowering Canadians through technology, education, and access.
Financial Success and Recognition
Tony Staffieri’s leadership has been accompanied by recognition for his professional achievements and financial acumen. In 2022, his total compensation reached approximately CAD $31.5 million, including long-term incentives related to the Shaw merger. In 2023, he earned around CAD $12.97 million, reflecting continued corporate success and performance-based rewards.
As a disciplined executive, Tony emphasizes value creation and sustainable business growth. His track record demonstrates that financial results follow integrity, consistency, and strong strategic direction.
Conclusion
Tony Staffieri’s story is one of vision, dedication, and transformation. From a young finance professional to the CEO of Rogers Communications, his journey showcases the power of hard work and strategic thinking. His leadership has brought both praise and criticism — some admire his bold decisions and financial results, while others debate corporate consolidation under his watch.
Yet one thing remains undeniable: Tony Staffieri has reshaped the future of Canadian telecommunications. His legacy continues to grow as he leads Rogers into a new era of innovation, connectivity, and national progress.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Tony Staffieri?
Tony Staffieri is the President and CEO of Rogers Communications, one of Canada’s largest telecommunications companies.
Q2: What is Tony Staffieri’s educational background?
He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business at York University and is a Chartered Accountant (FCPA, FCA).
Q3: When did Tony Staffieri become CEO of Rogers?
He was appointed interim CEO in November 2021 and confirmed as permanent CEO in January 2022.
Q4: What are Tony Staffieri’s major achievements?
His most notable achievement is leading the successful Rogers–Shaw merger, expanding Rogers’ footprint across Canada.
Q5: What is Tony Staffieri’s leadership style?
He is known for strategic vision, disciplined financial management, and a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
