Leading with Integrity: Peter Bissonnette’s Journey from Boardroom to Bookstore

 

In this special episode, I sat down with Peter Bissonnette—former President of Shaw Communications—to talk about his remarkable leadership journey and his upcoming book, Count on Me, launching July 18th. Peter’s story is anything but conventional. From life in a monastery to serving in the Air Force, and ultimately leading one of Canada’s most recognized telecommunications companies, his path to leadership is rooted in humility, adaptability, and service to others.

Leadership Lessons from a Life Well-Lived
Peter and I explored how his unique experiences shaped a grounded, people-first leadership style. Whether navigating high-stakes negotiations or union agreements, Peter emphasized that values like empathy, accountability, and active listening were key drivers of his success. His book Count on Me captures these moments and lessons, offering a compelling case study in transformational leadership.

Shaw Communications: Embracing Change, Staying Human
We reflected on Shaw’s evolution—from its early days in cable to becoming a major player in internet and wireless services. Peter shared how strategic investments in infrastructure and top-tier talent enabled the company to stay ahead of technological shifts. He also highlighted how Shaw's unwavering commitment to employee well-being and customer experience helped it weather the pandemic's unprecedented challenges. It's a blueprint for change management done right—with heart.

Culture as a Catalyst for Success
Peter opened up about Shaw’s intentional leadership culture, grounded in trust, care, and shared accountability. He described how these values created a sense of belonging and mutual respect across teams. I couldn’t agree more—when employees feel supported, they deliver their best. That culture doesn’t just drive business results; it builds loyalty and resilience.

Why Count on Me Matters Now More Than Ever
Peter spent three years writing Count on Me, a legacy project meant to inspire current and future leaders. The book explores the deeper purpose of leadership—how it’s less about personal accolades and more about empowering others and leaving things better than you found them. If you care about leadership that lifts people up and strengthens communities, this book is a must-read.

📌 Next Steps and How You Can Engage

• Peter's book Count on Me launches July 18th—Here's the link

• This podcast episode drops next week to coincide with the book launch—subscribe so you don’t miss it.

• Follow Peter on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to stay connected and get updates on his journey.

• Share this episode with leaders and changemakers in your network who are committed to cultivating impact through culture.

💬 “Leadership isn't about the spotlight—it's about lifting others into it.” – Peter Bissonnette

This conversation reminded me why legacy, culture, and compassion are cornerstones of impactful leadership. I hope you’ll tune in, take notes, and take action.

 

PETER J. BISSONNETTE

- FORMER PRESIDENT OF SHAW COMMUNICATIONS
- AUTHOR OF COUNT ON ME

Peter began his thirty-five years with Shaw Communications Inc. in 1989, as
vice president operations. He progressed to the role of president in 2001, a
position he held until his retirement in 2015. He remained on the board until
Shaw's sale to Rogers in 2023.

As a child, Peter was an army brat moving from place to place. He
attended a Catholic boarding school in England and for a time
considered pursuing a life in the clergy. Instead, he joined the Navy and
later the Royal Canadian Air Force, where he discovered his aptitude for
electronics and radar technology.

Always seeking new opportunities and growth, Peter left a poorly paid role
at Northern Radio in Ottawa with just $50 in his wallet and headed to
Vancouver on a Greyhound bus. There he found work with BC Tel, where
he worked for twelve years, climbing the ranks, gaining a reputation for
operational excellence, and attracting the attention of big telecom
leaders like the McDonalds, Ted Rogers and ultimately, JR Shaw.
Peter is an avid musician, with his own recording studio and an impressive
collection of guitars. He is also a talented photographer; a subject he
majored in at college.

SPEAKER TOPICS
• Telecommunications and the Future of the Industry
• Manifesting and Visualization – Making things happen!
• Leadership, and the Evolution of Business
• The Art of Negotiation
• Recording Studio Set-up, Music, Guitar playing
LINKS
• Ingeniumbooks.com/COUNT
• Facebook.com/peter.bissonnette.7
• Instagram @peter.bissonnette

 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-j-bissonnette-28311181/