[3] Staffen has worked in the private sector as an entrepreneur, a natural resources consultant, and in risk capital.
Prior to entering politics, Staffen worked in the Yukon, Alaska, and the Northwest Territories.
[5] As Speaker, Staffen was credited with improving some of the decorum in the legislative assembly over his tenure, as well as restoring the dormant youth legislature program.
[6] Staffen announced his plans to retire from politics in June 2011, expressing a desire to return to the private sector.
His appointment was not renewed when the Conservative government (and Leona Aglukkaq) were defeated in the 2015 federal election.