Aquino to step down from Restaurants Canada

July 8, 2015, Toronto – After eight years with Groupex Systems Canada and four years as chief operating officer of Restaurants Canada, Carmine Aquino has announced plans to leave the association as of July 31.

“It’s been an honour and a pleasure to have worked with the great teams at Groupex and Restaurants Canada over the past 12 years, as well as with so many talented leaders in our industry,” Aquino said in a news release. “I’m proud of what we accomplished together for this wonderful industry, but it’s time for me to move on to new challenges.”

Aquino joined Groupex – a group buying service for independent operators that is owned by Restaurants Canada – in 2003 and served as president from 2006 to 2011. He then joined the senior management team at Restaurants Canada, assuming responsibility for membership, trade shows and sponsorship programs.

Under Aquino’s leadership, Groupex doubled its membership and Restaurants Canada exponentially grew its partnership and sponsorship programs with leading industry suppliers. In addition, the Restaurants Canada Show evolved from a trade show to a multi-faceted event for the foodservice industry.

“Anyone who has worked with Carmine knows him as a people person who excels at building successful, long-term partnerships,” said Donna Dooher, president and chief executive officer of the association. “Carmine’s integrity and leadership are held in high regard, and I know I speak for the entire team when I say that we’ll miss having him in the Restaurants Canada family. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

Prior to joining Groupex and Restaurants Canada, Aquino held various senior positions over a 23-year career at Sysco.

A decision on Aquino’s replacement has not yet been made.