Financial holding company Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. and accounting firm Deloitte announced Tuesday that former governor general David Johnston has signed on with each firm as an advisor.

Johnston officially left the vice-regal position on Oct. 2 when former astronaut Julie Payette was sworn in as the 29th person to represent the Queen in Canada.

Johnston previously served on Fairfax’s board of directors before resigning in July 2010 in order to begin his duties as governor general.

As global advisor, Johnston will be expected to assist the many presidents in the Fairfax group of companies with business opportunities, community responsibilities and government relations in each of the countries in which Fairfax and its partners operate, or wish to do business, around the globe.

“We look forward to having such a great Canadian re-join the Fairfax team to bring his integrity, wisdom and insight in his global advisor role,” says Prem Watsa, chairman and CEO of Fairfax, in a statement.

Separately, accounting firm Deloitte announced Johnston has joined the firm as an executive advisor.

The company says Johnston will be based in Ottawa and offer advice in such areas as innovation, leadership development and helping businesses improve growth and productivity.

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