Ken Taylor

Former Canadian Ambassador to Iran

Ken Taylor is best known as the former Canadian Ambassador to Iran who, in 1980, risked his own life and his country's reputation, to help save the lives of six American hostages during the Iran Crisis. His heroism made him an overnight international celebrity. He received the United States Congressional Gold Medal and the Order of Canada. He was also portrayed by legendary actor Gordon Pinsent in the movie "Escape from Iran: The Canadian Caper". 

Ken Taylor's service as a diplomat in the Canadian Foreign Service also involved trade development responsibilities in Guatemala, Detroit and London, foreign-aid-related matters in Pakistan, crisis management in Iran and the enhancement of Canada's image in New York (as the former Canadian Consul General).

Since his resignation from the foreign service in 1984, Mr. Taylor has worked extensively in the private sector. He has served as a board member of several companies in Canada, the United States and Mexico, and has provided counseling services to clients on issues of political risk, international marketing and strategic accommodation with government.