John Ferguson's corporate and community leadership have benefited his region for decades. A businessman, he has been sought out by numerous corporations for his commitment to corporate social responsibility. As chairman of Suncor Energy, he was instrumental in overseeing the merger between Petro-Canada and Suncor that created Canada's largest energy company. He is also engaged in his community and is highly regarded for his contributions to the governance of the University of Alberta as board chair and chancellor.