The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce recently announced that the 2016 ABEX Business Leader of the Year is Gavin Semple, a well-known Saskatchewan businessperson and chairman of the Brandt Group of Companies.
The award will be presented at the 2016 ABEX awards, to be held in Saskatoon on October 22.
Semple began his journey at Brandt as a territory salesman at the age of 27 in 1972 and his drive and ambition was quickly reflected in a rise through the ranks in the company. A mere four years later, he had become president and general manager and soon after secured his position as primary shareholder.
Since this time, Semple and his son Shaun have grown the company into an industrial manufacturing giant, with nearly 2000 employees and a growing international audience; serving the agriculture, forestry, rail, mining, construction, and tube and pipe industries in over 20 countries with unique custom products.
Semple has received considerable recognition for his abilities as a business leader, including an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Regina. Despite his considerable success and recognition, Semple displays an incredible humility.
He attributes his success to his farm upbringing, knowing the value of hard work and the value of the people working alongside him. It is second nature for Semple to show pride for his employees and rewarding them for their dedication and hard work.
Semple’s generosity benefits many important causes in Saskatchewan, which further underscores his importance as a business leader and Brandt’s role as a corporate citizen. After surpassing $1 billion in annual revenue in 2011, the Semples and Brandt launched the ‘Thanks a Billion’ program, which continuously gives back to the customers, employees and communities who have reached that milestone.
“Gavin Semple is a remarkable and visionary leader who has given so much to this province.” said Steve McLellan, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Tickets for the ABEX Awards, October 22 are available on the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce website at www.saskchamber.com.
