Compass Group Canada appoints Gaétan de L'Hermite as new CEO
Compass Group Canada announced that Gaétan de L'Hermite has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Compass Group Canada & ESS North America. He will succeed Saajid Khan, who will transition to become CEO of Bon Appétit Management Company within Compass Group North America.
De L'Hermite will formally assume the role in fall 2026, while Khan will remain involved during a planned transition period over the summer. Khan will begin his new role as CEO of Bon Appétit following the transition.
De L'Hermite brings more than 22 years of international experience with Compass Group, most recently serving as CEO of Compass Group Asia Pacific, including Australia. He has previously held CEO positions at Compass Group France and served as Managing Director of Compass Group Ireland.
"I am honoured to be joining Compass Group Canada & ESS North America at such an exciting time for the business," de L'Hermite said in a statement. "My focus will be on building on the strong foundation already in place while continuing to deliver exceptional service and experiences for our clients."
Under Khan's leadership, Compass Group Canada & ESS North America has grown to more than $2 billion in revenue, according to the company statement. The business serves clients across various sectors nationwide through more than 10,000 locations.
Compass Group Canada provides foodservice and support services across diverse sectors including sports venues, schools, hospitals, oil rigs, and remote camps. The company employs over 30,000 associates across Canada and has received recognition as one of Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures from 2021 to 2025.
