A lifelong advocate for public education and a practical problem-solver, Rob Cerjanec was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Ajax in 2025. As the Ontario Liberal Critic for Economic Development & Innovation, and Tourism, Sport & Culture, he is focused on building a province where every young person has an opportunity not only to succeed, but to thrive. His work is centred on driving inclusive economic growth, strengthening healthcare and education, improving public transportation options, protecting the environment, and making life more affordable for Ontarians.
Rob’s passion for inclusivity, fairness and opportunity is rooted in his lived experience. Born in North York and raised by a single mother, Rob grew up in a one-bedroom apartment where he learned early the value of hard work and perseverance. While money was tight, Rob benefited from strong public schools that opened doors and shaped his belief in the power of public institutions to change lives.
His family’s story is like many immigrant stories in Ontario. Rob’s German, Croatian, and Maltese relatives came to Canada in the aftermath of the Second World War, settling in York Region. His grandfather worked long days on a farm in Bradford and night shifts in a packing plant to build a better future for his family – an example of resilience and sacrifice that continues to inform Rob’s approach to public service.
Before entering elected office, Rob was a small business owner and consultant, and served on the senior leadership team at the Durham District School Board, where he oversaw strategic initiatives and external relations, helping parents navigate the public education system. He also served as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Mayor of Toronto, Ana Bailão, helping shape complex public policy on housing, transit, development, and community initiatives.
Rob has been an active member of the Ontario Liberal Party since 2010, volunteering on countless campaigns in roles ranging from door-knocking to overseeing campaign strategy, communications, and field operations. In a snap winter election in 2025, Rob stepped forward as a candidate and earned the trust of voters in Ajax, unseating a PC incumbent. He is the only MPP in the Ontario Liberal Caucus representing the 905.
Rob has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from York University and a Master of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business.