EDMONTON — Kurt Timchuk, a Fountain Tire store owner in Winnipeg, has been named the Fountain Tire Most Valuable Player of 2022.
Timchuk was among those honored recently at Fountain Tire's annual Owners Convention, held in Toronto.
Fountain honored Timchuk for his business success in 2022, which included a 38% increase in annual sales, "exceptional" expense control and consistently high-scoring safety audits. Timchuk also received a Fountain Tire benchmark award for surpassing the store's financial targets.
A 20-year veteran with Fountain, Timchuk "has demonstrated a positive attitude, willingness to contribute and a commitment to helping his associates succeed," Fountain Tire said.
Fountain Tire CEO Jason Herle said leadership in Canada's tire industry requires financial and people management, exceptional customer service and commitment to the community.
"Kurt excels in each of these areas," Herle said. "He has enjoyed great success in his career yet remains one of our most humble managers."
Timchuk called it a great honor to be recognized "among a group of business leaders I highly respect. I also have to thank my associates, some of whom I've been working with my whole career. They're a huge part of our store's achievements."
According to Fountain Tire, Timchuk strongly supports his team, business network and the broader community. It said he has supported several associates in apprenticeship programs and mentored employees through Fountain Tire's Advancement in Management and DRIVE programs, both designed to build the skills to become successful store managers.
The Fountain Tire Winnipeg, Regent Avenue store traditionally supports local initiatives including Harvest Manitoba, the region's food bank.
"Kurt lives Fountain Tire's partnership culture, the essence of 'We're on this road together,' " Herle said.
Managers own 50% equity in Fountain Tire stores.
The MVP, awarded annually since 2004, is selected from owners across Fountain Tire's network of 163 locations. Nominees are graded on several business success markers, including leadership, community involvement, customer relationships and safety.
Others recognized at the convention include Nathan Gringas of Calgary (Midnapore), Rookie of the Year; Victor Badillo of Vancouver (Marine Drive), Most Improved Retail; and Brad Dobransky of Peace River, Alberta, as Most Improved Mixed.
