Remembering Shaun Guthrie

The CIO Association of Canada is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our friend, colleague, and President, Shaun Guthrie.

Shaun was a trusted colleague, a mentor, and a friend. Those who had the privilege of serving alongside him will remember his leadership, his kindness, his encouragement, and the genuine interest he took in the people around him. Shaun had a way of making others feel supported, valued, and capable of achieving more than they thought possible.

Shaun believed that technology leadership was never just about technology. It was about people. It was about helping organizations grow, helping leaders succeed, and finding better ways to serve others. He brought that belief to every role he held and every conversation he had.

He had a gift for helping people think differently. He asked thoughtful questions, brought fresh perspectives, and encouraged those around him to imagine what was possible. He made time for people. He celebrated the successes of others, offered guidance when it was needed, and connected people and ideas in ways that strengthened careers and communities.

As President of CIOCAN, Shaun invested in Canada’s technology community by sharing ideas, encouraging collaboration, and mentoring others. He earned the respect and admiration of colleagues across the country, and the friendship of many.

Shaun’s passing leaves a profound loss for our Association and the broader Canadian technology community. We will remember him for his leadership, his accomplishments, and the humanity he brought to every interaction. His legacy will live on in the people he encouraged and the community he helped shape.

The Board will meet in the weeks ahead, and we will share further updates with our community in due course.

On behalf of the CIOCAN community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Shaun’s children, his family, his colleagues, and everyone whose life he touched.

The CIO community is stronger because Shaun was part of it. The best way we can honour his memory is to continue doing what he did so naturally: share our knowledge generously, support one another, and never stop imagining what is possible.

We are grateful for Shaun’s leadership, his friendship, and his service to our community. He will be deeply missed.