2023 Future Leaders in Convenience: ANTHONY RUFFOLO

Taking over a company’s reins can be challenging, but Anthony Ruffolo makes it look easy, something he gives his mentors and peers credit for. 

“Being in a leadership role at a young age requires empathy, patience and perspective that may exceed the experience level you enter the role with,” he explains.

“To overcome this, I worked with an outstanding team at McCowan; they always have the best interests of our customers and company at heart. Being able to listen to the advice of great people around you is one of the most meaningful skills you can develop.”

COO Glen Berger says Ruffolo has been instrumental in growing the company and executing a positive work culture focused on customer care, product development and innovation.

“Anthony has been integral to the redefining and development of the business, and has spearheaded countless product developments, including a family of products for secure under-counter tobacco cabinets which has changed the way many customers handle and store tobacco products,” says Berger. “It has provided greater flexibility in the layout of their pay-points and service counters.”

Ruffolo finds it rewarding to lead a company that manufactures high-quality products in Canada.

“I’m proud of our team’s ability to design products, solve problems and service our industry reliably,” he says.

“Sustainability is part of McCowan’s core: We build highly durable products that look fantastic for decades and our key material, steel, is recyclable. I’m supportive of local manufacturing, and being part of a company that supports the community and its economy is very meaningful to me.”

Click here for a full list of the Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash winners