Shaw Communications announced Wednesday (January 3) that Jim Shaw, the company’s vice-chairman and former CEO, died at the age of 60 following a brief illness.
“As a family, our hearts are heavy with sadness,” Brad Shaw, Shaw’s CEO, said in a statement. “I have not only lost a brother, but a great friend and mentor. Our lives will not be as complete without hearing Jim’s laughter or getting the benefit of his counsel or his insight.”
Jim Shaw, who joined the company in 1982 as a construction worker and cable installer, served as the second CEO of Calgary, Canada-based Shaw Communications, from 1998 to 2010, helming the company during a period in which revenues grew from $646 million in 1998, to $3.7 billion in 2010.
During his time as CEO, Jim Shaw shored up its position in Western Canada, leading an asset swap with Rogers Communications for territory in Vancouver and the lower Canadian mainland, and helping to establish the foundation of the MSO’s high-speed internet services, and the launch of phone service in 2005. He also served several cable industry organizations during his career, including chair of the Canadian Cable Television Association from 1996-2002, and served on several boards, including those for CableLabs, Microcell, Cancom and @Home.
He “led a senior management team known for its longevity, discipline, stability and cohesiveness; a tribute to his consultative style, trust, leadership skills and his willingness to delegate responsibility and reward success,” the company noted.
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“Jim’s countless contributions to our company are integral to Shaw’s long-term strength and growth as a Canadian industry leader,” Brad Shaw added. “As an operator, a deal maker and a strategist, Jim continued building the foundation started by our father, JR, to create a Canadian business leader and household brand across Western Canada.”
Jim Shaw donated generously to several causes and served on the boards of the University of Alberta, Shawnigan Lake School and Strathmore Tweedsmuir School, the company said.
Jim Shaw is survived by his wife, Kathryn, three children and three step-children, according to CBC News.
