Olymel has announced a planned leadership transition, naming current Chief Operating Officer Daniel Rivest as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective July 2026.
The announcement follows Yanick Gervais’s decision to step down after ten years with Olymel, including five years as president and CEO. To ensure continuity and a smooth transition, Gervais will remain with the organization as a strategic advisor through October 2027.
According to the company, the succession process was initiated more than a year ago and reflects a deliberate and orderly approach to leadership continuity.
Leadership Continuity and Strategic Focus
Gervais is credited with guiding Olymel through a significant transformation of its business model, strengthening resilience and performance during a period of operational and market challenges. In announcing the transition, Board Chair Richard Ferland highlighted Gervais’ vision, leadership, and lasting impact on the organization.
“Leading Olymel has been a tremendous privilege,” Gervais said in a statement. “I’m proud of what our teams have accomplished and confident the company will continue to grow and thrive under Daniel Rivest’s leadership.”
Rivest joined Olymel in 2016 and has held several senior leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, before being appointed Chief Operating Officer. With more than 20 years of experience in food processing, he has played a key role in executing Olymel’s strategic plan and delivering recent operational results.
“I’m honoured to be appointed CEO of Olymel,” Rivest said. “I’m taking on this responsibility with a clear focus on ensuring continuity in our strategic direction while preparing the company for future opportunities in the agri-food industry.”
About Olymel
Olymel is Canada’s leading pork and poultry producer, processor, and distributor. The company employs more than 12,000 people and operates production and processing facilities in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and New Brunswick. Olymel reports annual sales of approximately $4.5 billion and markets products under several well-known brands, including Olymel, Pinty’s, La Fernandière, Lafleur, and Flamingo.
