About Chris

With a vision to lead Brantford as one of Canada’s best exceptional living experiences for the 21^st century, Chris Friel has the passion, drive and visionary leadership to take us there.

Born and raised in Brantford, Chris was proud to serve as Mayor of the city from 1994 to 2003.  At only 27 years old, Chris received national acclaim as one of the youngest Mayor’s in Canadian history.

During his nine year mandate, Chris led the city through unprecedented economic growth and renewal, producing record increases in population, economics and overall morale.

Chris worked diligently to achieve many of the successes that are still driving Brantford’s growth and development today. Through his coordination of municipal, provincial and private sector partners, he secured the establishment of a campus for Wilfrid Laurier University creating a legacy of activity and investment in Brantford’s downtown.

Another proud accomplishment for Chris was the positive and dynamic relationship he fostered with the neighbouring Six Nations Native Reserve that has served as a model for aboriginal/municipal relations across Canada. With an innovative, proactive approach, Chris established a partnership with the Six Nations community resulting in the creation of a landmark agreement to service additional industrial lands.

Chris coordinated discussions and led negotiations with City staff and external partners resolving land development issues and resulting in over 1,300 acres of serviced industrial land being made available to attract industry, spark growth and attract significant industrial investment gaining 53 new companies including Proctor & Gamble, Adidas Canada, Maidstone Bakeries and Western Waffle just to name a few.

His passion to strengthen aboriginal relations continued even after his political life in his role as Director for Economic Development, creating programs for aboriginal communities across the Province of Ontario.  Chris has also gained corporate experience in the private sector as a General Manager opening the Canadian office for an international company, and is now Director of Corporate Development for specialty pharmaceutical company, ACIC/Methapharm.

Chris’ interest in politics can be traced back to his university days where he completed his Bachelor of Arts, Honours Political Science degree in 1989 from the University of Waterloo.

During his leisure time, Chris and his wife Wendy can be found in various hockey arenas and dance venues throughout the city playing active roles in their children Connor and Maddie’s busy lives.