EllisDon Corporation proudly announces that Geoff Smith, Executive Chair of its Board of Directors, has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Toronto Region Builder Award. This accolade honors Smith’s lifelong contributions to EllisDon, the construction industry, and the broader Toronto community through his exemplary leadership and commitment to progress.

The Toronto Region Builder Award, established in 2013, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to improving the Toronto region through leadership or volunteerism. Previous recipients include notable figures such as Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, Susan McIsaac, and Larry Tanenbaum. Smith’s recognition underscores his pivotal role in shaping Toronto’s skyline, infrastructure, and cultural institutions during his career at EllisDon.

Smith joined EllisDon in 1981, continuing the legacy of his father, company founder Don Smith. As President and CEO from 1996, he cultivated a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and employee empowerment, notably establishing EllisDon’s employee ownership program. This initiative ensures the company’s equity is fully transferred to its employees, promoting long-term success and collaboration. His leadership has positioned EllisDon as a global construction leader while fostering a positive impact on the community.

Expressing gratitude for the award, Smith attributed the recognition to the collective efforts of EllisDon’s employees. “This honor is a testament to the incredible people at EllisDon who share a vision of progress, innovation, and community building,” Smith stated. “Together, we hope to continue making a positive impact on this great city for decades to come.”

Giles Gherson, President & CEO of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, praised Smith as the embodiment of what it means to be a builder, both figuratively and literally. Gherson commended Smith’s bold leadership, innovative vision, and enduring contributions to modernizing Toronto’s infrastructure and inspiring regional progress.

Smith will officially receive the award at the Toronto Region Board of Trade’s 135th Annual Dinner on February 27th at the Toronto Convention Centre. Themed “Dare to Lead,” the event will host over 1,000 prominent business leaders, featuring speakers such as Teresa Resch, President of the WNBA Toronto, Blake Hutcheson, CEO of OMERS, and Greta Cutulenco, CEO & Co-Founder of Acerta.

EllisDon celebrates Smith’s well-deserved recognition, reflecting his remarkable impact on the company and the Toronto community over decades of visionary leadership and dedication.

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