MARKHAM, ONTARIO — Canadian pet specialty retailer Pet Valu announced the appointment of Greg Ramier to the newly created position of president and chief operating officer, effective Aug. 12. The company also shared that Christine Martin-Bevilacqua, chief administrative officer, will be retiring effective Oct. 19 after 22 years with the company.

Ramier brings valuable leadership and extensive retail capabilities to his new role. He will be responsible for executing strategic initiatives, strengthening the company’s omnichannel retail offerings and growing long-term profitability.

The departments of Merchandising, Marketing and Digital, Supply Chain, Franchise Store Operations, and Corporate Store Operations will all report to Ramier, who will report to Chief Executive Officer Richard Maltsbarger.

“Greg brings to Pet Valu a wealth of retail industry, commercial, operational and management experience gained from his leadership roles over a 30-year career,” Maltsbarger said. “We are looking forward to the additional focus and comprehensive understanding of retail that he will bring to our strategic growth and operational efficiency priorities.”

Ramier added, “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Pet Valu. Its commitment to devoted pet lovers, neighborhood stores and great customer experiences have made it the clear choice for Canadian pet owners. I look forward to being part of the next stage of our growth journey.”

In her role as chief administrative officer, Martin-Bevilacqua is currently leading the Human Resources, Franchising and Real Estate, Lease Administration, Facilities and Construction teams.

“Christine has provided consistent and outstanding performance that has allowed her to lead a number of diverse and interesting functions across Pet Valu, not only today, but throughout her career,” Maltsbarger said. “She has been an advocate for our people, including our Animal Care Experts (ACEs), leaders and franchisees, as well as thousands of others who have called upon her over the past two decades to help shape their professional and personal development. Her contributions are too impactful to be over-stated and, personally, she has been a steadfast partner and advisor to me as CEO.”

Ramier will take over the management of the Franchising and Real Estate, Lease Administration, Facilities and Construction teams following Martin-Bevilacqua’s retirement.

The Human Resources team will report to Maltsbarger. He will also continue overseeing the company’s Legal, Finance and Corporate Technology teams,  as well as Pet Valu’s Quebec-based subsidiary, Chico.

“It has been a privilege to be a leader at Pet Valu throughout our outstanding growth over the last 22 years,” Martin-Bevilacqua said. “This growth has provided opportunities to our ACEs, franchisees and their families to achieve their career aspirations while delivering exceptional service, expertise and real compassion to devoted pet lovers in their communities. I wish everyone continued success and look forward to watching the team build on the momentum we have created through our store growth, exceptional products and supply chain innovation.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.