2021 Recipients
Steve Fox
Former Chief Customer Officer, Nestlé Canada Inc.
Steve never planned a career in the food industry but he ended up in CPG 38 years ago when his plan to follow in his father’s footsteps into the insurance business did not pan out. He spent the first 21 years of his career working across Canada for Nabob Coffee Company, Kraft and Warner-Lambert, joining Nestlé as Senior Vice President of Sales in 2003. Under his watch, 17 years and six CEOs later, the business grew exponentially and the Nestlé selling organization was transformed from an operational to a strategic-focused enterprise.
Together with his team, they navigated some of the most challenging and transformational years in the history of CPG. “The Nestlé sales organization had a relentless commitment on what truly mattered to consumers and customers. Every single aspect of the organization was galvanized to this commitment,” said Shelley Martin, former CEO of Nestlé Canada and previous Golden Pencil winner.
Steve credits much of his success to his many mentors who, throughout his career, helped him adapt to an ever-changing landscape, challenge his thinking and push the boundaries of what was possible. His leadership style was shaped by these incredible industry leaders. During Steve’s tenure with Nestlé, he sat on the board of the Associate Member’s Council (AMC), was actively engaged with the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG,) and a proud supporter of Kids Help Phone, of which Nestlé is a founding partner.
His proudest accomplishments are the incredible team he had the privilege to build and lead, and the deep and abiding friendships he has made throughout his career. As Head of the Nestlé sales organization from 2003 to 2020, Steve has left an indelible mark on the company and industry.
A native of Scarborough, Steve now lives in Aurora with his wife Yvonne who has been his rock and supporter throughout his career. He is a proud father of four children and has two grandchildren. He is passionate about continuing to be driven by purpose and find ways to give back to the community.
Former Chief Customer Officer, Nestlé Canada Inc.
Steve never planned a career in the food industry but he ended up in CPG 38 years ago when his plan to follow in his father’s footsteps into the insurance business did not pan out. He spent the first 21 years of his career working across Canada for Nabob Coffee Company, Kraft and Warner-Lambert, joining Nestlé as Senior Vice President of Sales in 2003. Under his watch, 17 years and six CEOs later, the business grew exponentially and the Nestlé selling organization was transformed from an operational to a strategic-focused enterprise.
Together with his team, they navigated some of the most challenging and transformational years in the history of CPG. “The Nestlé sales organization had a relentless commitment on what truly mattered to consumers and customers. Every single aspect of the organization was galvanized to this commitment,” said Shelley Martin, former CEO of Nestlé Canada and previous Golden Pencil winner.
Steve credits much of his success to his many mentors who, throughout his career, helped him adapt to an ever-changing landscape, challenge his thinking and push the boundaries of what was possible. His leadership style was shaped by these incredible industry leaders. During Steve’s tenure with Nestlé, he sat on the board of the Associate Member’s Council (AMC), was actively engaged with the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG,) and a proud supporter of Kids Help Phone, of which Nestlé is a founding partner.
His proudest accomplishments are the incredible team he had the privilege to build and lead, and the deep and abiding friendships he has made throughout his career. As Head of the Nestlé sales organization from 2003 to 2020, Steve has left an indelible mark on the company and industry.
A native of Scarborough, Steve now lives in Aurora with his wife Yvonne who has been his rock and supporter throughout his career. He is a proud father of four children and has two grandchildren. He is passionate about continuing to be driven by purpose and find ways to give back to the community.