Ascend Canada names T&T Supermarket CEO executive of the year

Tina Lee, chief executive officer at T&T Supermarket, was recognized as executive of the year during Ascend Canada's 5th annual Leadership Awards Gala in Toronto April 3.

The executive of the year award recognizes an individual who has made "outstanding contributions to their organization; delivering business results, demonstrating leadership and being at the forefront of innovation," according to Ascend Canada -- a non-profit organization looking to develop and advance Pan-Asian talent.

Lee took over operations for Canada’s largest Asian supermarket chain in 2014 when her mother and T&T founder Cindy Lee retired.

Prior to taking the CEO role, Lee served as director of strategy and operations, and in 2009 became closely involved in the negotiations around Loblaw’s acquisition of T&T and acted as a liaison between the two companies.

Lee was one of five individuals recognized for their career achievements and contributions to the community. Other award recipients included:

• Rising Star of the Year: Fahad Tariq, founder of Shift


• Mentor of the Year: Samra Zafar, founder and executive director at Brave Beginnings


• Innovator of the Year: Jahanzaib Ansari, co-founder and CEO at Knockri


• Ascend Volunteer of the Year: Avni Shah, manager at TD Securities Audit