Restaurants Canada appoints Anthony Polci as Executive Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs

Toronto, January 5, 2026 – Restaurants Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony Polci as Executive Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs effective today. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Lobbyists, Polci is widely valued for his strategic judgment, coalition-building expertise, and ability to influence public policy through disciplined, measurable advocacy.

“We are thrilled to have someone of Anthony’s caliber to Restaurants Canada to lead our advocacy team,” said Kelly Higginson, President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. “Over the past year, the foodservice industry has navigated a trade war, supply chain disruptions and rapid changes to immigration, among other issues. Our government relations and public affairs team has risen to the challenge, and with Anthony’s leadership, we will further strengthen our voice and impact with governments across the country.”

Polci’s career spans senior roles in both the public and private sectors, including nearly 20 years at the Canadian Bankers Association, serving as Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Government Relations. Earlier in his career, he served in several senior roles within the Office of the Minister of Transport.

Polci will be based out of Restaurants Canada’s Ottawa, Ontario office.

Media Contact:

Milena Stanoeva, Restaurants Canada | media@restaurantscanada.org | 647-921-1758

About Restaurants Canada

Restaurants Canada is a national, not-for-profit association advancing Canada’s diverse and dynamic foodservice industry. Restaurants are a $124 billion industry employing nearly 1.2 million Canadians and the number one source of first-time jobs in Canada. Visit restaurantscanada.org for more information.