James Allen Pattison: Canadian Business Magnate and Philanthropist
James Allen Pattison is a renowned Canadian business magnate and investor. Born in Saskatchewan in 1928, he moved to Vancouver at a young age and began his entrepreneurial journey by selling cars. In 1961, he established his own Pontiac dealership, which became the foundation of the Jim Pattison Group.
Pattison's business empire expanded rapidly, spanning various industries including automotive, food, media, and agriculture. Today, the Jim Pattison Group is Canada's second largest privately-held company, with over 45,000 employees and annual sales exceeding $10 billion.
Pattison is also a significant figure in the media industry, owning radio and television stations across Western Canada. He has been actively involved in major civic events, such as serving as the chief executive officer and president of Expo 86 in Vancouver.
In addition to his business success, Pattison is a renowned philanthropist. He has supported numerous charitable organizations and hospitals, including the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, Fraser Health, and the new St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver. In 2017, he made a record-breaking $75 million donation to St. Paul's, and his foundation contributed $50 million to the new Children's Hospital of Saskatchewan, named in his honor.
Pattison's unwavering dedication to business, philanthropy, and community involvement has earned him numerous accolades. He is an Officer of the Order of Canada, a member of the Order of British Columbia, and a recipient of the Horatio Alger Award. Despite his remarkable achievements, Pattison remains committed to his work, stating, "I get 365 days. If you like your work, it’s not work."