Nov 2, 2026

Gay Lea Foods appoints Kohl Horbow as senior vice-president, operations and supply chain

Graeme Reid to retire at the end of 2026, following significant contributions to the co-operative’s manufacturing transformation

TORONTO, ON – November 3, 2026 – Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited (“Gay Lea Foods”) today announced the appointment of Kohl Horbow as senior vice-president, operations and supply chain, effective Nov.30, 2026. Horbow will succeed Graeme Reid, who will retire on Dec. 31, 2026.

The appointment supports continued execution of the Gay Lea Recipe, Gay Lea Foods’ business strategy focused on strengthening its foundation and driving sustainable growth, including significant investments in its Canadian manufacturing network.

Under Reid’s leadership, the co-operative has made important progress on Network for Growth, a multi-year, $450-million capital investment plan to drive organic growth and operational excellence at Gay Lea Foods. Reid has overseen the development of the program’s blueprint and roadmap, advanced capital investments to strengthen existing facilities and led the more than $200-million expansion of the co-operative’s cultured dairy facility in Toronto. The expansion is designed to increase processing capacity and support growing demand for cottage cheese and high-protein dairy products.

“Graeme has played an important role in shaping the future of our manufacturing operations,” said Suzanna Dalrymple, president and CEO of Gay Lea Foods. “His leadership has helped move forward investments that will strengthen our business for years to come. Just as importantly, he has developed a strong team with the capabilities to continue this work. We’re grateful for his commitment to Gay Lea Foods and the lasting impact of his leadership.”

Horbow joined Gay Lea Foods in September 2025 as vice-president, supply chain, bringing more than 20 years of experience with Maple Leaf Foods and earlier experience with Cargill. His background spans manufacturing, supply chain management and business optimization.

Since joining the co-operative, Horbow has helped strengthen business planning and advance more connected ways of working across the organization. In his new role, he will oversee manufacturing, supply chain, maintenance, engineering, health and safety, food safety and quality.

“Kohl brings the experience, judgment and leadership to build on the progress we’ve made,” said Dalrymple. “He understands that strong operational performance starts with our people and is sustained through disciplined execution. As we continue delivering the Gay Lea Recipe, our focus remains on strengthening our operations, making the most of our investments and creating lasting value for the dairy farm families who own our co-operative. I’m confident in Kohl’s ability to carry this work forward.”

Reid and Horbow will work together through a planned transition ahead of Reid’s retirement at the end of 2026.

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About Gay Lea Foods

Gay Lea Foods is a leading Canadian dairy co-operative owned by approximately 1,200 dairy farmer members in Ontario and Manitoba. Founded in 1958, the co-operative produces a wide range of high-quality dairy products and ingredients under trusted brands including Gay Lea, Nordica, Salerno and Bothwell Cheese. Guided by its purpose to enrich life with dairy, Gay Lea Foods is committed to creating sustainable value for its members, employees, customers and communities.

Media Contact

Robin Redstone
Director, Communications
Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited
communications@gayleafoods.com

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