Telus CEO Darren Entwistle in Toronto in 2022. The company has announced that Mr. Entwistle will be replaced by Victor Dodig, former CEO of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce.
TELUS CEO transition plans are now officially in motion as Darren Entwistle prepares to retire after more than 26 years at the helm. The announcement marks the end of a remarkable leadership era and the beginning of a new chapter under Victor Dodig, who has been appointed as the next President and Chief Executive Officer.
Entwistle will step down on June 30, 2026, closing a tenure that reshaped TELUS from a regional telecom provider into a global technology leader. Victor Dodig will assume the CEO role on July 1, 2026, following what the board described as a thorough succession planning process.
A Defining TELUS CEO Transition
The TELUS CEO transition follows years of structured planning by the Board of Directors. Dodig, who has served as an Independent Director since May 2022, will become CEO Designate immediately. He will join the leadership team full time on May 1, 2026, ensuring continuity before the formal handover.
Board Chair John Manley described the transition as carefully managed and strategically timed. He emphasized that the board evaluated both internal and external candidates before selecting Dodig. The decision, he noted, reflects TELUS’ long-term governance discipline and leadership vision.
Darren Entwistle’s Transformational Legacy
Darren Entwistle leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond financial growth. During his 26-year tenure, TELUS expanded into more than 45 countries and now generates over $20 billion in annual revenue.
Under his leadership, TELUS invested heavily in broadband networks and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company diversified into digital health, agriculture technology, and customer experience solutions, strengthening its global footprint. Entwistle also championed a model that blended commercial success with measurable social impact.
He will step down from the board on June 30, 2026, and receive the honorary title of CEO Emeritus. To support the TELUS CEO transition, he will remain available as an advisor to Dodig until April 30, 2027.
Reflecting on his career, Entwistle called it a privilege to serve alongside TELUS team members. He credited employees for building a culture rooted in innovation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership.
Victor Dodig Brings Strategic Depth
Victor Dodig steps into the TELUS CEO transition with extensive executive experience. He most recently served as President and CEO of CIBC from 2014 to 2025. During his tenure, he modernized the bank’s operations while strengthening customer engagement and digital capabilities.
Board members highlighted Dodig’s experience leading complex organizations in regulated industries. They believe his background in financial services transformation aligns well with TELUS’ evolving technology strategy. His time on the TELUS board also provided insight into the company’s growth roadmap.
Dodig expressed gratitude for the opportunity and praised TELUS’ global network infrastructure and customer-first culture. He said he looks forward to building on Entwistle’s legacy while guiding the company into its next phase of innovation.
A Culture Rooted in Social Capitalism
The TELUS CEO transition also underscores the company’s commitment to social responsibility. TELUS is widely recognized for its “give where we live” philosophy, which blends technology leadership with community investment.
Since 2000, the company and its stakeholders have contributed $1.85 billion in cash and in-kind support. The TELUS Student Bursary, launched in 2023, has already distributed millions to students across Canada. These initiatives reflect a broader strategy that aligns growth with social progress.
Looking Ahead for TELUS
As the TELUS CEO transition unfolds, the company appears well-positioned for stability and expansion. Its diversified business model now spans communications, health technology, agriculture solutions, and digital services. More than 21 million customer connections support its advanced broadband offerings worldwide.
The coming months will focus on ensuring a seamless handover of responsibilities. With structured planning and experienced leadership in place, TELUS aims to sustain its growth momentum while reinforcing its global reputation.
For shareholders, employees, and customers alike, this TELUS CEO transition signals continuity, strategic clarity, and a renewed commitment to innovation in an evolving technology landscape.v
