Join us at the upcoming COPA Night of Recognition as we recognize two leaders representative of our reseller and vendor member communities. This award honours individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the industry within Canada; through their extended commitment (in excess of 15 years) to the industry, they have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and responsibility as the cornerstones of their office products career.
We are thrilled to honour the exceptional contributions of Jane Gleadall and George Buttigieg, our distinguished recipients of the Excellence in Leadership Award.
Jane Gleadall and George Buttigieg have exemplified the highest standards of leadership and dedication within our industry. Their visionary approaches and unwavering commitment have significantly advanced our community and set a remarkable benchmark for excellence.
George Buttigieg
With an impressive 45-year career in the office products and paper distribution industry, George Buttigieg is a respected figure known for his deep expertise, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He retired after 26 years of service at Ariva, a Domtar business, where he played an instrumental role in overseeing sales and maintaining the company’s reputation as a trusted supplier.
Before joining Ariva, George spent 17 years at Avery Dennison, a global leader in labeling and related products, where he developed a keen understanding of the office products sector. His time at Avery Dennison was foundational in shaping his career, giving him the tools to excel in both product knowledge and client relations.
Throughout his career, George was a mentor to many, offering guidance, sharing his industry knowledge, and helping colleagues and peers navigate the challenges of the evolving business landscape. His reliability and professionalism earned him the trust of countless clients and partners, solidifying his reputation as a go-to supplier in the industry.
Now retired, George reflects on a career marked by leadership, mentorship, and the respect of his peers, having left a lasting legacy in the industry he helped shape.
JANE GLEADALL
Jane Gleadall has enjoyed a 34-year career in the Office Products Industry. She joined Bic Inc. in 1987 and later held various sales roles, including VP of Sales at Quartet, GBC, ACCO Brands Canada, and Fellowes Brands.
She was promoted to President of Fellowes Canada in 2018 and retired in 2022. Jane’s career has been influenced by the evolution of work and consumer needs, resulting in profitable, sustainable relationships with customers and organizations.
She was a collaborative leader, demonstrating confidence, decisiveness, and fearlessness. She was insightful, funny, and self-deprecating, and her connections displayed her deep concern for the health and well-being of her customers, employees, and family and friends.
In addition, the evening will also recognize Gayle McCaskill who passed away earlier this year. Gayle spent a number of years working within the office products industry and most recently was employed by COPA as a data consultant. Gayle is missed by the COPA team and many friends from within the industry.
In Loving Memory of Gayle McCaskill
Gayle spent over 35 years in the office products industry, starting with Wilsons Stationery and later moving to Today’s Business Products Ltd., which was taken over by Lyreco International, where she held the title of International Marketing Manager. During this time she was actively involved with COPA and many of its committees and events. In 1992, she became Director of Consumables with CIBC and later joined the Bank of Montreal in 1998 as Director of Commodities, Services & Logistics. Following her banking career, she worked for DB Advantage Inc. and other companies as a consultant, including the Canadian Office Products Association.
COPA Night of Recognition
Date: October 30, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Venue: The Vue, 195 Galaxy Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 6R7, Canada
Dress Code: Semi-Formal Attire
