C-suite success: Meet the women making executive moves in January
Career24.01.2025
January didn’t just kick off a new year — it brought fresh career milestones for some incredible businesswomen in Canada.
From retail to real estate, beauty, and media, several women were appointed to C-suite positions, building on their years of prior experience.
As the conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to reshape industries, these leaders are stepping into top roles and showing what bold, effective leadership looks like.
Here’s a closer look at the women leading the charge in 2025:
Venessa Yates, President and CEO of Walmart Canada
Walmart Canada just got a new boss! Venessa Yates has stepped into the CEO role, bringing a wealth of retail experience from her time at Woolworths and ALDI. Most recently, Yates served as Senior VP and General Manager of Walmart+, the company’s membership program.
Now, Yates is ready to lead Walmart Canada’s 400-plus stores into their next chapter.
“The Canadian business, with its 100,000 associates and impressive 30-year history, has always been a source of pride,” she said. “We’re currently in growth mode, and I’m excited about our future.”
The company serves millions of customers daily and is focused on driving its transformation into one of the country’s top retailers. Guilherme Loureiro, Regional CEO for Walmart Canada, said Venessa is the right person for the job, describing her as “a tremendous retail leader.”
Olga Farman, CEO of the Port of Québec
The Port of Québec is setting sail into a new era of leadership with the appointment of Olga Farman as its Chief Executive Officer.
Starting February 1, Farman — already a familiar face as a Board member since 2020 and Chair since last year — is ready to dive into the challenges and opportunities of leading this key trade hub.
“My involvement with the Port of Québec’s Board of Directors has given me a closer look at the fascinating world of Québec as a local and international port city,” she said. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to devote myself to it full-time.”
With a background as managing partner of the Québec office of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada and experience on high-profile boards like the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Farman knows how to steer big ships (figuratively, at least).
“Olga has demonstrated beyond any doubt her ability to mobilize teams, develop talent, manage innovation and implement concrete solutions to ensure the sustainable growth of organizations,” noted François Amyot, Chair of the Québec Port Authority’s Governance Committee.
Strategically located, the Port generates $2 billion in economic activity every year, and generates around 10,000 jobs.
Kelly Jessop West, CEO of Chatters Hair Salon
Chatters Hair Salon is turning heads this year with the appointment of Kelly Jessop West as CEO.
With 25-plus years of experience in the retail and beauty industries — including senior leadership roles at Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaw Companies — West is ready to guide the Canadian salon chain into an exciting future.
With its 115 locations and 1,200 stylists across the country, Chatters has big plans for 2025.
“Kelly’s ability to lead through change and her collaborative, inclusive approach uniquely position her to guide Chatters forward,” said Jason Volk, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Chatters Board of Directors.
West herself is equally enthusiastic about the journey ahead. “I’m truly honoured to join Chatters, a company with a strong foundation and an exciting future,” she said. “I look forward to connecting with the talented team members who make Chatters exceptional and working together to build on its legacy of innovation, quality, and outstanding service.”
Caroline Jamet, President of Cogeco Media
Quebec’s radio powerhouse, Cogeco Media, has a new leader. Caroline Jamet was named President of the company, which operates 21 radio stations across the province.
Starting in February, Jamet will oversee the growing company, bringing her extensive experience in media to the role.
“With its presence across Quebec and its great reputation, it is a privilege to join Cogeco Media,” Jamet said. “I look forward to engaging with the team and continuing this work of showcasing quality content produced by renowned artisans.”
Frédéric Perron, President and CEO of Cogeco, praised Jamet’s leadership skills and deep understanding of the industry. “Her strategic vision, digital transformation experience, and deep understanding of the media landscape will be invaluable assets in ensuring and maintaining our ongoing success.”
Karen Yolevski, CEO of Carson Dunlop
Home inspection and property solutions leader Carson Dunlop started the year with a significant leadership change: Karen Yolevski was named CEO.
Formerly COO of Royal LePage’s corporate brokerages, Yolevski brings a wealth of experience across real estate, financial services, and law to her new role.
At Carson Dunlop, Yolevski will oversee its family of brands, including CDW Engineering and National Property Inspections, while focusing on innovation and client service. “Karen brings an exceptional depth of leadership and industry experience, combined with a strong reputation for driving growth and fostering meaningful relationships,” said company founder Alan Carson.
For Yolevski, it’s a natural next step. “Having worked closely with real estate professionals, I understand the immense value Carson Dunlop brings to the industry,” she said. “I look forward to working with the team to build on the company’s exceptional legacy, innovate for the future, and deliver even greater value to homeowners, commercial clients, inspectors, and real estate partners alike.”
