Lino Saputo Jr. wins top CEO award

Lino Saputo Jr., chair of the board and chief executive officer of Saputo, has been recognized as Outstanding CEO of the Year for 2019.

The award honours an "exceptional leader who has made an outstanding contribution in business, demonstrating excellence in leadership, corporate performance, global competitiveness, innovation and social responsibility."

According to a press release, Saputo Jr. was selected as the 2019 recipient by the Outstanding CEO of the Year advisory board for his outstanding leadership.  The Montreal-based Canadian dairy company, founded by Saputo Jr.'s father in 1954, has experienced stellar growth and built a significant global presence under Saputo Jr.'s tutelage.

"It is often said that you are only as good as those you surround yourself with," said Saputo Jr., in a press release announcing the honour. "This recognition is a reflection of the truly tremendous work of a passionate and dedicated team that is committed to living up to the values on which our company was founded over 65 years ago."

Saputo Jr. is the 30th CEO to receive the CEO of the Year award. Past recipients include Linamar’s Linda Hasenfratz, Sun Life Financial's Dean Connor, Air Canada's Calvin Rovinescu and George Cope of BCE Inc. and Bell Canada.