TORONTO – The Vector Institute, a leading force in artificial intelligence research and innovation, today announced that Tony Gaffney, President & and CEO, will transition to a new role at the Vector Institute, as Special Advisor to the Chair effective March 6, 2025, focusing on advocating for the role of AI in helping address economic productivity in Canada.

“Canada stands at a critical juncture in AI development and adoption,” said Tony Gaffney. “While we remain at the forefront of AI innovation, we must now focus on turning this advantage into economic prosperity. The hesitation to adopt AI, risks undermining Canada’s early leadership position as an AI powerhouse for development and innovation. It’s time for businesses to move forward decisively with AI implementation.”

“Tony’s vision in recognizing the critical link between AI adoption and productivity positions the AI ecosystem to make an even greater impact on Canada’s economic future,” said Ed Clark, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Vector will continue its vital work while we search for our next CEO.”

“I am passionate about advancing Canada’s productivity through AI, and I am excited to leverage our Vector network in addition to my own, to mobilize Canadians to be focused on productivity. As a country, we led the way in AI development and innovation,” Tony added. “Now we must lead the way in adoption, reaping the benefits of responsible AI for our generation and the next. I look forward to contributing to enabling this transformation in my new role.”

About the Vector Institute:

Launched in 2017, the Vector Institute works with industry, institutions, startups, and governments to build AI talent and drive research excellence in AI to develop and sustain AI-based innovation to foster economic growth and improve the lives of Canadians. Vector aims to advance AI research, increase adoption in industry and health through programs for talent, commercialization, and application, and lead Canada towards the responsible use of AI. Programs for industry, led by top AI practitioners, offer foundations for applications in products and processes, company-specific guidance, training for professionals, and connections to workforce-ready talent. Vector is funded by the Province of Ontario, the Government of Canada through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, and leading industry sponsors from across multiple sectors of Canadian Industry.

Media Contact: Kari Clarke-Zemnickis VP Marketing and Communications media@vectorinstitute.ai