Mohamed Ibrahim
Vice President Merchandising – Discount Format, Sobeys Inc.
Where did you grow up? A small town in eastern Ethiopia. First job in the biz? Working at the Ontario Food Terminal. Who or what has inspired you? Working after school hours at my uncle’s grocery store as a shopkeeper. What is your greatest achievement? Working alongside teammates, particularly my mentor Rob Adams, to transform the old Price Chopper banner to the FreshCo and Chalo! FreshCo brands. Equally, for the last 33 years, being part of the evolution and growth of the hard discount business in Ontario and Western Canada. Best advice you’ve ever gained? “Take responsibility for change” is one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever gained after listening to and reading W. Mitchell’s It’s Not What Happens to You, It’s What You Do About It. What was your favourite subject in school? Math. How do you define success? Reaching your purpose and aim in life. Favourite meal? I love seafood, specifically Mediterranean seabass (branzino). Favourite sport and team? Soccer and AC Milan. Favourite business book? Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad. Hobbies? Playing golf and travelling. Most treasured possession? My family and health. Ideal golf foursome? Cristiano Ronaldo, Michael Jordan, and Tiger Woods. Favourite vacation destination? Returning to my birthplace and hometown to visit my siblings is always the best. Things to do on your bucket list? Watch a final FIFA World Cup game live. Favourite saying? “If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.” – Maya Angelou. Unusual thing that has happened to you? I once quit my job at the time to watch live as many of the 1990 World Cup games hosted by Italy. What would people be surprised to know about you? I lived in Rome for 14 months before immigrating to Canada in my early 20s and spoke Italian fluently at one point.
Jim Slomka is executive vice president of media strategy for Grocery Business.
