[3][4] In 2003, Rabinovitch was awarded an honorary doctor of laws degree by York University in recognition of his public service.
He worked for the Government of Canada from 1968 to 1986, serving as Undersecretary of State from January 1985 to September 1986 and Deputy Minister of Communications from 1982 to 1985.
While serving as head of the CBC, Rabinovitch ordered the lockout of 5,500 unionized employees in 2005, leading to a two-month labour struggle between the Crown corporation and the Canadian Media Guild.
[5] Prior to his appointment as head of the CBC, Rabinovitch had served as Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer of Claridge Inc., a Bronfman family holding company.
[4] He served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Canadian Jewish Congress (Québec) until his appointment to the CBC.