STELLARTON, NS – Claude Tessier, President of Sobeys’ Quebec business unit, has resigned from his position to pursue another opportunity as Chief Financial Officer with Canadian convenience store giant Couche-Tard.

The retail industry veteran got his start at Sobeys in 2003 after joining IGA as Vice President of Finance & Strategic Planning. In 2012, he was promoted to President of the IGA Operations Business Unit. He has held other leadership positions with companies, including Provigo and Costco, gaining more than 15 years of senior financial leadership experience.

Simon Gagné, Sobeys’ Chief Human Resources Officer, will now oversee the company’s Quebec business unit until a replacement for Tessier is found, according to a press release.

“Our leadership team in Quebec, which manages the IGA retail chain as well as other banners throughout the province, will remain focused on advancing the Joy of Eating Better movement and in serving the needs of our customers each and every day,” said Marc Poulin, President and CEO of Sobeys.

On his new role, Tessier said in a written statement that he is excited to join the Couche-Tard family, calling it “one of the true success stories of Quebec.”

“In addition to overseeing the financial, reporting, and investor relations functions in Couche-Tard, I look forward to joining President and Chief Executive Officer Brian Hannasch in evaluating opportunities for further expansion under the new, global Circle K brand,” said Tessier. “I am thrilled at this opportunity to play a part in Couche-Tard’s continuing strategic growth and reaching its goal to become the world’s preferred destination for convenience and fuel.”

Couche-Tard operates 8,006 convenience stores throughout North America.

We will continue to keep track of this story until a new President for Sobeys’ Quebec business unit is announced.

Sobeys