John Stevenson
John spent his early years in the east end of Toronto and attended St. Michael’s College School. He is a graduate of St. Jerome’s College at the University of Waterloo and attended Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto.
John’s professional life began with an 8 year stint with Procter & Gamble, one of the world’s largest consumer package goods companies where he reached the position of Canadian National Trade Marketing Manager. John then joined Playtex as Director of Sales for Europe based in Madrid, Spain. Following this posting, he moved to London, England as Commercial Director for Playtex, United Kingdom. He returned to Canada and took up a position as President and Chief Operating Officer of H.H. Brown Shoe Company (Canada Ltd.) He completed his professional career as President of Alberto Culver Canada, another large consumer package goods company. John’s sales, marketing and general management skills have been thoroughly tested in his various leadership roles.
Following his graduation at the University of Waterloo, he was appointed to the Senate of this same University and served for 2 years.
Following his retirement, John has been an active mentor with the Canadian Youth Business Federation and has also been involved with Junior Achievement Canada. He currently dedicates time to teaching an introductory business course in one of Toronto’s “high risk” areas. John has also been active with the City of Hamilton’s Small Business Enterprise Centre as a mentor to their Summer Company Program.
John has a passion for the game of hockey and for several years, has been a head coach with the Minor Oakville Hockey Association.
John is married to Anne Marie; they now have two adult children and reside in Oakville, Ontario.