STELLARTON, NS - Sobeys parent company, Empire Company Limited, has announced Michael Medline as its newest President and CEO, effective immediately. This appointment also secures him a spot on Empire’s Board of Directors.
“I am proud to be joining Empire, a great retailer which has served Canadians for more than 109 years,” said Medline upon his appointment. “I'm looking forward to working with our entire team to put together and execute on a strategy that will thrill our customers, build our brands, and excite our shareholders.”
Empire describes Medline as a proven leader with a strong track record of success. According to a press release, his career prior to Empire included serving for more than 15 years in a variety of senior retail leadership roles at Canadian Tire Corporation. Most recently holding the role of President & Chief Executive Officer for Canadian Tire, Empire believes he is ideally positioned to serve the needs of its customers and oversee the return of long-term, profitable growth to the company.
“Michael Medline is an outstanding Canadian retailer who brings a passion for the customer experience and a proven ability to drive strong operating and financial performance within national organizations and across multiple brands,” shared James Dickson, Chair of Empire. “After an extensive international search, the Board is unanimous in its determination that Michael is the right choice to create long-term value for all our stakeholders.”
He will work closely with outgoing Interim President and CEO François Vimard, who will be moving into the role of Executive Vice President, as well as Empire’s leadership team to further understand the company’s business. He is also expected to benefit from the other highly experienced food retailing experts on the Empire Board.
