Our Team

Allison currently serves as the Interim President of Grinner’s Food Systems Limited (GFSL), where she oversees all financial and day-to-day operations. She plays a key leadership role in driving financial performance, supporting franchise growth, and ensuring sound fiscal management across the Company. Before joining GFSL, she held senior roles in both public accounting and industry, including her time at Grant Thornton where she advised a wide range of clients—from franchisees and retailers to not-for-profit organizations and manufacturers. Allison also brings hands-on experience from her previous roles as Controller and Manager of Accounting Policies and Standards at other Atlantic Canadian companies. There, she led initiatives focused on financial reporting, internal controls, and process improvements. With a strong background in both strategic finance and operational support, Allison is committed to helping GFSL and its franchise partners thrive in a competitive and fast-paced industry.

John Hay has been a dedicated member of the GFSL restaurant system for over 25 years, devoting nearly his entire career to the company. Over the years, he has steadily advanced into more senior leadership roles and, in October 2025, he was appointed Chairman of GFSL. In additional to his role as Chairman, John serves as the Development and Xpress Division Manager, a role he has held for the past two years. In this position, he is primarily responsible for opening new locations and driving growth across both the standard and Xpress divisions. John’s journey with the Company began at the Truro tri-branded corporate store, where he spent approximately 10 years gaining hands-on experience in all areas of store operations. Starting as in-store staff, he worked as a driver, server, assistant manager, and ultimately store manager. John then spent a decade on the road as a Grinner’s Field Representative and the Operations Manager for Capt. Submarine. During this time, he focused on providing training, mentorship, and operational support to staff, managers, and franchise owners. Complementing his operational and leadership experience, John also brings an owner’s perspective to his role, having owned and sold four Greco locations and one standalone Capt. Submarine location

Don has over 30 years’ experience in the food industry, including several years in restaurant management. Don joined GFSL head office in 2003 as an Operations Representative whose responsibilities included menu development, store support for all locations in the chain, opening new locations and training new store owners and staff. He became Director of Operations in 2011 and took over the company procurement segment in 2017.