Empire Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Empire has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to Canadian communities, Empire focuses on food retailing and related real estate, shaping the nation's grocery landscape through strategic leadership and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at Empire

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ernest Anlimah
  • President and Chief Executive Officer - Pierre St-Laurent
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Constantine Pefanis
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Sandra Sanderson
  • Chief Human Resource Officer - Sandra Pasquini
  • Ernest Anlimah - Chief Executive Officer

    Ernest Anlimah, the Chief Executive Officer at Empire, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational framework. Anlimah's leadership ensures alignment across all business units, focusing on enhancing the company's market position within Canadian food retailing and real estate sectors. This executive guides the organization's long-term vision, prioritizing sustainable growth and stakeholder value. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering innovation and driving efficiency throughout the enterprise. Anlimah's strategic direction impacts every facet of Empire's operations, from supply chain management to customer engagement. Ernest Anlimah's role is pivotal in navigating market dynamics and securing the company's competitive advantage in the Canadian retail landscape. The Chief Executive Officer's oversight extends to capital allocation and strategic partnerships, ensuring robust financial health and expansion opportunities.

    Pierre St-Laurent - President and Chief Executive Officer

    Pierre St-Laurent, the President and Chief Executive Officer at Empire, spearheads the company's strategic direction and operational execution. St-Laurent's leadership encompasses the entirety of Empire's food retailing and real estate businesses, driving initiatives that strengthen market presence across Canada. This executive is responsible for cultivating a culture of excellence and innovation, ensuring seamless integration of all corporate functions. The President and Chief Executive Officer's purview includes significant decision-making regarding market expansion, operational efficiency, and long-term financial planning. St-Laurent's role is critical in translating corporate objectives into tangible business outcomes, overseeing major strategic projects and partnerships. Pierre St-Laurent's influence is central to maintaining Empire's commitment to its customers and communities. The President and Chief Executive Officer's guidance ensures the company remains a leader in the Canadian retail sector, adapting to evolving consumer needs and market trends.
    Pierre St-Laurent

    Constantine Pefanis - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Constantine Pefanis, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Empire, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the organization. Pefanis's responsibilities include managing capital allocation, financial reporting, investor relations, and risk management across Empire's extensive retail and real estate portfolios. This executive ensures the financial integrity and stability of the company, supporting its growth objectives through sound fiscal policies. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's oversight is crucial for optimizing profitability and driving shareholder value. Constantine Pefanis plays a key part in evaluating potential mergers, acquisitions, and strategic investments that align with Empire's long-term vision. Pefanis's financial acumen guides the company's approach to economic challenges and opportunities within the Canadian market. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures robust financial controls and transparent reporting.

    Sandra Sanderson - Chief Marketing Officer

    Sandra Sanderson, the Chief Marketing Officer at Empire, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies that enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. Sanderson's focus is on driving consumer loyalty and market share within the competitive Canadian food retail environment. This executive oversees all aspects of brand management, advertising, digital marketing, and promotional campaigns. The Chief Marketing Officer's role involves deep analysis of market trends and consumer behavior to inform product positioning and outreach efforts. Sandra Sanderson's leadership ensures that Empire's diverse retail banners resonate effectively with their target demographics. By developing innovative marketing initiatives, the Chief Marketing Officer supports sales growth and strengthens the company's connection with communities across Canada. Sanderson's strategic vision guides the development of impactful campaigns that highlight Empire's commitment to quality and value.

    Sandra Pasquini - Chief Human Resource Officer

    Sandra Pasquini, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Empire, leads the development and implementation of human capital strategies that support the company's operational goals and employee well-being. Pasquini's purview includes talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture across Empire's diverse workforce. This executive is instrumental in ensuring that human resource policies align with business objectives and regulatory requirements within the Canadian retail sector. The Chief Human Resource Officer's role is vital in attracting, retaining, and engaging top talent to drive business success. Sandra Pasquini's strategic initiatives focus on building a skilled and motivated team capable of meeting the evolving demands of the food retailing and real estate industries. Pasquini's leadership cultivates an environment where employees can thrive, contributing to Empire's overall performance and community impact. The Chief Human Resource Officer champions initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Empire Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Empire?
    Empire is led by Ernest Anlimah (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Pierre St-Laurent (President and Chief Executive Officer) and Constantine Pefanis (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Empire’s executive team?
    The executive team of Empire includes leaders such as Ernest Anlimah (Chief Executive Officer), Pierre St-Laurent (President and Chief Executive Officer), Constantine Pefanis (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Empire have?
    Empire has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Empire’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Empire includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President and Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Human Resource Officer.