I don’t think I ever met anyone who was as passionate about this country as Ted Rogers. He loved Canada as much, if not more, than he loved the communications business. And all of us in the world of telecommunications have been touched by the influence of Ted’s communications empire, successfully bundling and converging broadcasting, cable TV distribution, wireline telecom, fixed and mobile wireless, together with so many content properties.
I first met Ted nearly 19 years ago, when I was part of the team that put together the business plan for competitive long distance under the Unitel banner. I had responsibility for the capital budget and faced an intense grilling from the board, led by zinger after zinger from Ted. That meeting was my first cross-examination; after that session, CRTC hearings were a breeze.
My favourite recollection was Ted coming to The 2007 Canadian Telecom Summit. As we gathered for lunch, we had the leadership of Canada’s industry together for a memorable moment. When he approached the registration desk, he was greeted by Susie, who was introduced to him as “Mark Goldberg’s wife.” Ted said “Mark Goldberg. Now there’s a great Canadian entrepreneur.”
I don’t hold a candle to Canada’s greatest entrepreneur. He will be missed.