2026 Future Leader in Convenience + Car Wash winner: KELLY ARRAN

Kelly Arran’s ability to adapt, learn and lead has been exceptional and she’s described as a strategic thinker committed to driving growth.

“Winning this award is a defining moment. It reflects the amount of learning, growth, dedication and collaboration it took to get here. It represents the relationships I’ve built from scratch and the results we’ve achieved together—especially in driving innovation and customer experience at the ground level,” says Arran, who thrives on being in a fast-paced, constantly evolving, people-focused business.

“I love being a part of an industry that’s essential to communities. Watching my sites interact and build relationships with their customers makes me especially proud. Knowing I have the ability and the responsibility to create inclusive spaces and support local initiatives is incredibly important to me.”

Arran’s current role was a massive departure from her last position, and she initially found it overwhelming to step into a leadership role while learning the ins-and-outs of a new industry.

“I listened, I learned and I applied—in that order. I owe any success in this role to constant communication, trust, adaptability and approachability. I’ve learned that good leadership isn’t about having all the answers but creating space for discussion,” she says. 

Celebrated for spearheading the alcohol category launch across CMS’s Ontario sites, Arran drove her team to deliver double-digit increases in total sales, while helping to transform three struggling sites to become among the company’s most profitable.