We are excited to announce the appointment of Myrna Grahn as the new Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers (CAAR), starting March 25, 2024.

Myrna brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for agriculture and the agri-food system to our organization. Throughout her illustrious career, she has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to advancing the industry's interests and disseminating accurate, balanced, and current information about where your food comes from.

Myrna's journey in the agricultural industry spans over thirty years and is marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation. After graduating with honours from the University of Manitoba, Myrna embarked on a career path that saw her assume pivotal roles within various sectors of the agricultural landscape.

Hailing from a grain and cattle farm in Riding Mountain, Manitoba, Myrna's roots in agriculture run deep. Her journey has seen her traverse diverse landscapes, from urban to rural settings, and her multifaceted perspective encompasses various facets of the industry, from production to processing, innovation education, and beyond. Myrna has cultivated an extensive network and earned a reputation as a trailblazer and visionary leader. Her ability to collaborate, influence, and align stakeholders from government, industry, and academia is unparalleled, making her a formidable force in advancing the interests of the agriculture and food sector.

Notably, Myrna has spearheaded transformative initiatives such as the Manitoba Industry-Academia Partnership and the Manitoba Protein Advantage implementation phase, a collaborative strategy aimed at sustainable growth and global leadership in the protein industry. Her previous roles, including leadership positions in government initiatives and the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, underscore her strategic acumen and her dedication to driving positive change.

Myrna has demonstrated exceptional communication skills throughout her career. She adeptly manages sensitive topics and conveys messages to diverse audiences, including the media. As a dynamic public speaker and facilitator, she has engaged and inspired stakeholders, from senior executives to grassroots members.

Before joining CAAR, Myrna served in senior leadership roles within leading agricultural organizations, where she played instrumental roles in fostering growth, driving operational efficiencies, and championing sustainable practices. Her strategic vision and ability to forge meaningful partnerships have consistently propelled organizations toward success.

Under Myrna's leadership, CAAR will continue to advocate for the agri-retail sector, championing initiatives that promote sustainability, innovation, and prosperity.

With her deep-rooted understanding of the agricultural sector and her unwavering commitment to the well-being of Canadian agriculture, we are confident that Myrna will steer CAAR toward new heights of achievement and impact.

Her strategic acumen and her passion for collaboration will undoubtedly strengthen CAAR's position as a leading voice within the Canadian agricultural community.

Please join us in welcoming Myrna Grahn to her new role. With her at the helm, we are poised for a new era of innovation and advocacy that will lead to growth, opportunity, and success for CAAR and the entire agri-retail industry.

Stu Rasmussen, P.Ag.
Board Chair
Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers (CAAR)