Toni Rossi
Cheif ESG Officer, Infrastructure Ontario
Sector: Public Sector
Discipline: Portfolio Management
Year: 2014
Magic Moment: I have three! 1) Job board in university that led to a residential real estate brokerage firm. 2) Working at the Science Centre, about to embark on a trip around the world. Took an interview on a whim with Cadillac Fairview and was offered a job. 3) Joined United Way, which solidified my love for philanthropy and underlined the need for community connection with real estate.
Key Influence: My Father – He came from Italy in 1951 as a 17 year old bright eyed trailblazer looking to build a future. He loved and believed in this city so much, he sponsored all his and my mother’s siblings to immigrate. His direct sponsorship has resulted in over 375 people calling Toronto home today. He taught me to be a voracious reader, food and music lover and a great tour guide as he loved to explore the city.
My Mother – She taught me perseverance, patience and grace … and I am still the student in these matters.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: I think the city today is unaffordable and I don’t think that we are heading down the right path. There’s so much optimism in this region from an economic development perspective, on a commercial basis, and we do need to connect better through transit, but those things will happen regardless. Food and shelter are essential base needs and we are pricing a lot of people out of the latter.
Secret Talent: A mean knowledge of the dewy decimal system of book shelving.
On Championing Others… I believe I champion people by being a “conductor”. I relish bringing out an individual’s true best self and helping to connect that strength with someone else’s through respect, humour, training and opportunities.
One word that captures you: Authentic