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Robert Valdmanis
President, Robert Valdmanis Consulting Inc. Strategic Public Affairs
Professional Background
Robert Valdmanis is a distinguished communications and public affairs professional with over 20 years of extensive experience spanning both domestic and international landscapes. His expertise encompasses a diverse array of industry sectors, showcasing his adaptability and keen understanding of global communications strategies. A native of Montreal, Robert's career has taken him across more than 50 countries, enhancing his proficiency in multiple languages and allowing him to engage effectively with varied audiences.
Robert's impressive career trajectory includes holding pivotal roles such as Vice President and Partner at Gervais, Gagnon & Associates (GGA) in Montreal and Principal at The Dilenschneider Group (DGI) in New York City. His leadership experience extends to his role as President of GCI Canada, a prominent public relations consultancy with a team of over 40 professionals based in Toronto.
Notably, Robert served as the Director of Communications and External Affairs for Rio Tinto Alcan from 2006 to 2012. In this capacity, he was instrumental in establishing and implementing global best practices for stakeholder engagement and issues management, significantly advancing RTA’s ambitious multi-billion dollar greenfield growth portfolio. An important facet of his role also involved crafting the Canadian Aboriginal Strategy across all five of Rio Tinto's business units in Canada, thereby fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Robert has been actively involved in public service as a three-term President of the Federal Liberal Riding Association of Lac St. Louis, where he effectively led two successful election campaigns for MP Clifford Lincoln. Moreover, during the pivotal 1995 Quebec referendum, he notably served as the Chief Organizer for the federalist "No Committee" in the Jacques Cartier riding, where he cultivated a robust organization of over 2,000 volunteers to advocate for unity.
Education and Achievements
Robert Valdmanis's educational background is as impressive as his professional experience. He holds a Bachelor of Arts with honours in Political Science from Concordia University’s School of Community and Public Affairs, where he was recognized for his academic excellence and served as Chairman of the Student Council. Furthermore, he earned his law degree (LLB) from the prestigious McGill University’s Faculty of Law, where he was elected to the McGill Senate, illustrating his commitment to both legal and academic excellence.
Robert continues to shape the future of communications strategy in academia by teaching Public Affairs Strategy at Concordia University’s SCPA. He is not only a dedicated lecturer but also a sought-after speaker, having delivered lectures at renowned institutions such as the Munk School of Global Affairs in Toronto and the Jeanne Sauvé International Foundation.
His commitment to excellence in public affairs is complemented by his involvement in various organizations. He formerly served on the External Affairs Committee for Prosper Canada, contributing valuable insights into the relationships between public policy and community development. Additionally, he has held several senior positions in communications and external relations at Rio Tinto Alcan, leading teams that effectively communicated complex strategies to diverse stakeholders.
Personal Interests and Activities
Outside his professional endeavors, Robert is a multifaceted individual with a passion for personal development and community involvement. He is a certified yoga teacher, combining his interests in wellness and mindfulness with his professional pursuits. His love for sports is exemplified through his role as a football coach and as an enthusiastic participant in chess and tennis, where he has not only played but also achieved success as a medalist at the Canadian Wrestling Championships.
In summary, Robert Valdmanis exemplifies the ideal blend of professional acumen, leadership, and personal commitment to community and individual excellence. As he continues to innovate in the fields of communications and public affairs, his contributions leave a lasting impact on the industries and communities he engages with.
