(Toronto) Phil Lind, who helped build Rogers Communications as an executive and board member, died Sunday on his 80th birthday.
Rogers Chairman Edward Rogers said Mr. Lind worked for Rogers for 54 years, nearly 40 of them with his father, and helped build the company into a powerhouse in telecommunications and media.
“He has been involved in every key decision in the company’s history, and we will be forever grateful to him for his countless contributions,” he said in a statement.
“Phil has been a consistent force for over five decades. His deep dedication, unwavering determination and wise counsel will be missed. »
Mr. Lind joined the company in 1969 as head of programming when it owned two radio stations and had approximately 10,000 cable subscribers.
He then became a key adviser to Ted Rogers and held various positions, including Senior Vice President of Programming and Planning.
Mr. Lind, who most recently served as vice-chairman of the board, was also a member of the advisory board of the Rogers Control Trust, which controls the company.
Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney said Mr. Lind’s death represents “a great loss for Canada.”
“Phil was a true pioneer in the Canadian cable and wireless industry and left an indelible mark on our country. His success in business is matched only by his passion for the arts and a deep obligation to his country through his many philanthropic endeavours,” he said in a statement Sunday.
“Canada lost a great leader today. »
The company said Mr. Lind had played “a vital role in every major transaction” in Rogers’ history, right up to its $26 billion deal to acquire Shaw Communications, which closed in April.
She described Mr. Lind as a “relentless advocate for multilingual, multicultural and specialty programming,” adding that he championed Canada’s independent film and television sector, founded CPAC, and was “the driving force” behind Rogers’ acquisition of Sportsnet and the Toronto Blue Jays.
“Phil was truly a great businessman, a sports enthusiast and a strong supporter of the Blue Jays in Major League Baseball,” testified team president emeritus Paul Beeston.
“He understood the value of sport and was instrumental in keeping the team in Canada with Ted Rogers. He was a great friend and colleague who will be deeply missed. »
Rogers Sports and Media president Colette Watson said the company had lost “a cable giant and a legend.”
“Beyond her long list of business accomplishments, Phil was a strong advocate for the advancement of women,” she said in a statement.
“He was progressive in his views, and I personally owe him my entire career for his mentorship, guidance and tutelage. Phil was a firm believer in the power of multiple voices and the importance of the democratic process. He used his role and influence to create positive change in our country. »