Canadian hardware retailer Rona names new CEO

BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec — Canadian hardware retailer, Rona, has named Robert Sawyer president and CEO, effective in April 2013.

Sawyer has more than 30 years of experience in a major Canadian food company and specializes in retail operations and distribution to dealers operating under different banners. Under his prior employer he held various executive positions and helped improve the profitability in several different areas.

Dominique Boies, acting CEO, remains Rona's EVP and CFO. He will assist Robert Sawyer and play an important role on the corporation''s management committee.

"On behalf of the board, I would first like to thank Dominique for the excellent work he has accomplished since he took on the role of acting CEO," said Robert Chevrier, executive chairman of the board of Rona.

Chevrier added: "It became increasingly clear to us that to ensure a successful transformation, we needed to hire a specialist in retail and distribution operations. So I am very pleased to announce today the appointment of Robert Sawyer. He will play a key role in simplifying and optimizing the Rona business model, particularly with respect to merchandising, pricing strategy, supply chain, service to consumers and service to Rona dealers. Robert has the operational and turnaround expertise needed to put Rona back on the path to profitable growth and increase value for all of our stakeholders."