GATINEAU – Long-time CRTC executive director of telecommunications, Chris Seidl (above), is retiring in July.
“While this is wonderful news for Chris and marks the beginning of new and exciting chapter in his life, he will be greatly missed within the sector and throughout the organization,” wrote CRTC chair Ian Scott in an email to Commission staff.
After 14 years as a professional engineer and director of software development at Nortel Networks, Seidl joined the Regulator in 2003. During his time there, Seidl held various roles including director of telecommunications policy, director of new media and technology and director general of convergence policy, before becoming executive director of telecommunications in 2012.
“Chris has played a key role in the development of the regulatory frameworks that helped guide the many communication services offered to Canadians of all walks of life. He and his team have addressed major policy issues concerning telecommunications service competition, emergency services such as text to 9-1-1, net neutrality, Canada’s universal service objective and the Commission’s broadband fund,” reads Scott’s email.
“Chris has played a leadership role in the telecommunications industry in Canada for almost two decades and it can be said that the industry has been forever shaped by his contributions.
“I know that his team would say that Chris has been a trusted leader who fully embodies the values and ethics of the public service. He is always prepared to share the knowledge he has acquired, encourages his team to innovate, and provides fearless advice. He has truly been engaged in the development of his team and has embraced his role as a mentor, including the use of his favorite phrase ‘Feedback is a gift!’ following the delivery of constructive criticism,” added Scott.
Scott also noted no replacement has yet been selected.
