FORMER CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE STAFF FOR CANADIAN FORCES

Defined by his “trademark passion and urgency” (CBC), General Rick Hillier has made tough but necessary decisions during our current war efforts. He’s a remarkable speaker, not because of the positions he’s held, but rather, because of the qualities he projects onto and inspires in others. His lessons make him a public leader worth admiring—and listening to.

In over three decades of service to his country, General Rick Hillier has remobilized support of Canadian troops, worked closely with Prime Ministers, increased Canada’s significance within NATO, and solidified Canada’s reputation on the world stage. In this time of War, under enormous public scrutiny, Hillier has, time and again, made the tough but needed decisions. In terms of leadership, in terms of diplomacy, in terms of strategy, he has few peers. For thousands of soldiers, he was a hero, “a soldier’s soldier,” and for millions of Canadians, he was the public face of the military during this eventful and tumultuous time in its history.

Gen. Hillier has commanded troops around the world, including NATO Forces in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and was appointed Commander of the Army and Commander of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force Afghanistan, in 2003. Called a man of “trademark passion and urgency” by the CBC, the straight-talking Hillier has just left his post as Chief of the Defence Staff — the highest ranking position in the Canadian Forces.

General Hillier is a remarkable, and much sought-after speaker. On stage, Canada’s top soldier displays the full range of his compassion, enthusiasm and leadership acumen, drawing on his unprecedented experience and sharing the lessons that have made him one of this country’s most respected and influential public figures.