Nigel Wright, former chief of staff to Stephen Harper, dies at 62. Conservatives, colleagues, and Onex mourn his leadership and lifelong public service.
Esteemed Conservative Strategist Passes Away
Nigel Wright, the former chief of staff to ex-Prime Minister Stephen Harper, has died at the age of 62, his employer Onex confirmed in a Tuesday press release. The cause of death has not been disclosed. His passing marks the end of a distinguished career spanning politics, law, and business.
From Law to Politics: A Lifelong Commitment
A trained lawyer, Wright was drawn to Conservative politics early in life. He served under former prime ministers Brian Mulroney and Kim Campbell before joining Onex, a Canadian private equity firm. At Onex, he led the London office and played a pivotal role in mergers and acquisitions. His career trajectory combined legal expertise with political strategy and corporate leadership.
Steering the Prime Minister’s Office
In 2010, Wright temporarily left Onex to join Harper’s office, managing dozens of staffers and contributing to the Conservative Party’s majority victory in the 2011 federal election. His leadership in the Prime Minister’s Office was marked by operational efficiency and political acumen, establishing him as a key figure in Canadian political circles.
Controversy and Public Scrutiny
Wright’s tenure in the PMO drew national attention during the 2013 Senate expenses scandal. He personally paid $90,000 to then-Senator Mike Duffy to cover disputed claims. Wright was never criminally charged but was found by the federal ethics commissioner to have breached the Ethics Act. He later testified at Duffy’s trial, describing the payment as a measure to protect federal funds and resolve a political dilemma.
Return to the Private Sector
Following his resignation from the PMO in 2014, Wright returned to Onex, where he remained a highly respected figure. Gerry Schwartz, Onex chair, described him as “remarkably astute, an outstanding leader, and an even more exceptional individual,” praising Wright’s humility and dedication to both professional and personal commitments.
National Figures Pay Tribute
Prominent Canadian Conservatives expressed their condolences following Wright’s death. Former Prime Minister Harper called him “a unique and deeply accomplished person,” while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre highlighted Wright’s principles, dedication, and public service. Former PMO staff and colleagues remembered him as brilliant, humble, and selfless, noting his tireless work ethic and lasting influence on Canadian politics.
Legacy of Leadership and Service
Prime Minister Mark Carney lauded Wright’s lifelong commitment to public service and community leadership, describing him as a trusted counselor and an inspiration. Wright’s contributions are remembered across political, business, and philanthropic communities, leaving a legacy of professionalism, generosity, and dedication to Canada.
