Westman Communications Group President & CEO Bud Keys Announces Retirement After Almost 15 Years With The Organization

BRANDON, MANITOBA – The Board of Directors of Westman Communications Group (WCG) recognizes Bud (Eagle) Keys’ outstanding contributions and leadership as they announce his upcoming retirement as President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective March 1, 2027.
Keys’ distinguished career in telecommunications spans over 38 years. He joined WCG in August 2012 as Director of Westman Business, where he quadrupled commercial revenues under his strategic leadership. In June 2022, Keys was appointed President & CEO, and by his retirement date, he will have served nearly five years at the helm of the organization.

During his tenure as President & CEO, Keys spearheaded transformative growth and strategic initiatives across the Cooperative. Under his leadership, WCG expanded its service area from 54 communities to over 90, successfully completed the acquisition of a Dauphin-based fixed wireless provider (Rionet), and oversaw the sale of WCG’s radio stations to Pattison Media. He also oversaw the deployment of innovative new platforms to enhance service delivery for members.

Beyond his operational achievements, Keys represented WCG as a recognized panelist at numerous industry conferences and held prominent leadership roles on the boards of the Manitoba Cooperative Association, the Keystone Centre, and the Canadian Communication Systems Alliance (CCSA).

“It has been a privilege to lead WCG and work alongside such a dedicated team over the past 14 years,” said Keys. “I am proud of what we have built together, from expanding our network footprint to launching new platforms for our members. WCG is positioned for a bright future, and I look forward to supporting a smooth transition over the coming months.”

Reflecting on Keys’ impact, the Board of Directors commended his commitment to the organization’s vision and community roots.“The Board of Directors would like to express our sincere gratitude to Bud for his vision, leadership, and dedication to growing our Cooperative and serving our members,” said Dan Robertson, Chairperson of WCG’s Board of Directors. “We wish him the absolute best in his well-deserved retirement.”

The CEO succession committee, comprised of elected members of the Westman Communications Group Board of Directors, will soon be starting the search for the next leader of WCG. The committee is confident that the Cooperative will continue to grow sustainably for years to come.