Grant Ainsley is one of Canada’s acclaimed experts on all matters relating to Crisis Communication. Grant has over 30 years of media experience and also understands how new technologies, including social media; affect the message of top Canadian organizations.
His articulate presentations focus on ways that organizations can become bulletproof, through advance planning, preparation and conducting themselves properly in the public eye. If they do get into a media crisis, Ainsley talks about ways to minimize the impact through accountability and honesty. His practical presentation, Crisis Communication, is firmly recommended to any organization, private, public or non-profit, that deals with the media, even occasionally.
Grant has an extensive background in broadcasting and public relations. He graduated from NAIT with a diploma in Radio and Television Arts (Honours) in 1977. He was News and Public Affairs Director of CKRA Radio (96 K-LIte) in Edmonton from 1983 – 1992 and a broadcaster there for two years prior to becoming news director. Grant also worked at CHQT in Edmonton from 1978-1981. During his time in the media he has done everything from covering some of Canada’s biggest stories, to reading the morning news and hosting a daily talk show.
Grant served as the Director of Public Relations in the City of Edmonton’s Public Works Department from 1992 - 1995. The Department had 1,500 employees and Grant was the department’s spokesperson, commenting on everything from roadway construction to water conservation programs, to the operation of high profile civic buildings. In 1994 he was presented with a prestigious award from the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) for his role in the public relations campaign that led to the opening of Whitemud Drive in Edmonton.
Grant Ainsley also served as the CEO of the Alberta Branch of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association from 1995 until 2008. The Association went through unprecedented growth in membership, budget, employees and benefits to the membership during this period. During this time, Grant was named the “Executive of the Year” by the national association
More Information: 1.866.420.3338 (toll-free in Canada) email: info@speakersalberta.com
Grant Ainsley’s Testimonials
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“I have been privy to a number of comments from our participants relating to your presentation, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and even glowing, and has included terms such as "incredible", amazing, exceptional, and extraordinary!" People have even suggested that the only possible way to have improved your presentation would have been to make it longer. You were frequently given a "5" ranking on our 1-4 scale. Well Done!!” |
Robyn Kotyk, Chief Operating Officer, Alberta Construction Safety Association |
“As hoteliers we often find ourselves dealing with the media on issues related to our public relations strategies or in regards to events at our hotels. Grant's presentation was focused on our specific needs and extremely useful for our members. We especially appreciated the information and "cheat sheets" he distributed for quick reference. I would highly recommend taking advantage of Grant's experience and unique approach to media relations.” |
Robert Blackwell, President, Edmonton Convention Hotels Association |
"Grant has a compelling perspective on media relations and the potential pitfalls of social media. He provided an intensive session for our senior leaders that provided practical suggestions on how to be better spokespeople for their organizations. I would definitely hire Grant again” |
Damian Stathonikos, Director, Communications and Public Affairs, B.C. Real Estate Association |
“We had the pleasure of having a media training session with Grant Ainsley. We found the session to be enlightening, educational and beneficial for our team when faced with media situations. It certainly came in handy when we had a colleague go missing on the ski hill for 24 hours” |
Amanda Robinson, General Manager, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge |
“If you, or your staff, are in a position where you have to respond to media regarding an incident that has happened on one or your sites, the training provided by Grant Ainsley Inc. will help you present your viewpoint effectively.” |
Gary Wagar, Chief Executive Officer, Alberta Construction Safety Association |
“Grant’s presentation was a unique blend of information and entertainment – his anecdotes, personal experiences and diverse knowledge provided an incredibly worthwhile session for both staff and elected officials. A presenter as dynamic as Grant is absolutely a gem that is hard to find!”
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Amanda Peterson, City Clerk, City of Brooks |
“During a recent media training session, Grant Ainsley and cameraman Doug Woolgar provided our elected officials and senior staff with the tools, tips and techniques of effective media relations, and also some valuable insights into
the role of the media in our society. The session was both entertaining and informative, especially the one-on-one interview/critique. Our post-session feedback indicated that the participants felt they had developed a greater degree confidence about being interviewed by journalists, especially television news media. Thanks again Grant and Doug!” |
Norma MacQuarrie, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Lacombe
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“Grant Ainsley and cameraman Doug Woolgar recently provided an invaluable media training session for our elected officials and senior administration. The day turned out to be not nearly as stressful as we anticipated. The session was very informative and very entertaining. All participants felt more confident and comfortable in dealing with the print, radio and TV media by the end of the day.” |
Ron Jackson, Director of Agriculture and Emergency Services, Athabasca County |
“Grant Ainsley was referred to BC Pharmacy Association through a non-profit network and proved his well-earned reputation. His approach was organized and thoughtful, providing meaningful input towards defining the scope of the project at the outset. That was really helpful. Grant delivered a high quality solution, ahead of time and below budget. A breath of fresh air and so thoroughly professional.” |
Cyril Lopez, Director, Member & Corporate Services, British Columbia Pharmacy Association |
“Grant Ainsley has provided training for our elected officials which has prepared them to face the media. The session was filled with pithy insight, sage advice and realistic exercises. As a result of the sessions, our leaders were more comfortable in crafting their message and dealing with media inquiries. We have added Grant to our roster of presenters for future media training sessions” |
Jon Hall, Marketing Manager, REALTORS Association of Edmonton |
“Grant Ainsley's media training has been invaluable to ACA's elected volunteers to confidently and effectively convey key messages on issues directly impacting our members' image and profitability” |
Ken Gibson, Executive Director, Alberta Construction Association |
“Grant and his staff conducted an excellent hands-on presentation to our Board members. They coached and prepared us on what to expect when we are asked to speak in front of the media. This included on- screen television interviews where we were asked questions about our association followed by a second set of interviews using a very stressful hypothetical situation, which I felt would really help prepare us for that unforeseen situation that could catch a person totally unprepared I would highly recommend Grant and his group to any person or association seeking media training” |
Bob Maslanko, PEC, President, Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta |
Grant’s Partial Client List:
Alberta Chambers of Commerce
Alberta Construction Association
Alberta Construction Safety Association
Alberta Real Estate Association
Alberta Urban Municipalities Association
ATB Financial
ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen
Athabasca County
BC Real Estate Association
Calgary Sport Council
Canadian Association of Geophysical Contractors
Canadian Home Builders Association of B.C.
Canadian Real Estate Association
City of Brooks
City of Lacombe
Edmonton Economic Development Corporation
Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta
Edmonton Hotels Convention Association
Fairmont Jasper Place Lodge
Lethbridge and District Association of Realtors
Meeting Planners International – Greater Edmonton
Ottawa Construction Association
Realtors Association of Edmonton
Remington Development Corporation
Town of High River
Vancouver Island Real Estate Board
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Grant Ainsley 
