MacEwan University welcomes Brent Hesje, board chair of Fountain Tire, as its 39th Allard Chair in Business.

Individuals selected for this honorary position possess exemplary business acumen, demonstrate remarkable leadership skills and have made significant contributions to the community.

“In addition to his exceptional career, Brent’s dedication to community building makes him a perfect choice for this position,” says Dr. Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor. “In his more than 30 years with Alberta-based Fountain Tire, he’s been an important influence in the economic success and growth of our city. And, equally as important, his hard work as a volunteer in support of many important institutions has left an indelible mark on the Capital Region. I’m thrilled to welcome Brent as Allard Chair, and look forward to the wisdom and insights he will bring to the MacEwan community.”

During his year-long appointment, Hesje will visit classrooms, give lectures and attend events, sharing his expertise and experiences with the MacEwan community.

“I am honoured,” says Hesje of the appointment. “MacEwan plays an important role in educating those who are about to enter the workforce, particularly in business. It’s an exciting time with the new School of Business  building taking shape, and I look forward to getting to know many students, staff and faculty in the coming year.”

MacEwan will officially celebrate Hesje’s appointment at an event in February.

Past Allard Chairs include Kristina Botelho, Cam Naqvi, Bill Comrie, Simon O'Byrne, Teresa Spinelli, Irv Kipnes, Naseem Bashir and John Cameron. Each is an exceptional member of the Edmonton community and has brought something unique and personal to MacEwan during their time as chair.

About Brent Hesje 

Brent Hesje started his career with Procter & Gamble, where he spent seven years in sales management and category marketing positions throughout Canada. In 1992, Hesje joined Fountain Tire as marketing manager. He became an owner and vice-president of marketing in 1994, and in 2005 was appointed CEO. He has served on the board of directors of Fountain Tire since January 2005 and was elected board chair in May of 2022. 

Hesje is active in the community and industry, having served as the board chair of organizations including the NAIT Board of Governors, Automotive Industries Association of Canada, YPO Alberta Chapter, Western Canada Tire Dealers and The Support Network. 

Beyond Fountain Tire, he is currently a board member of EPCOR, Alberta Blue Cross, Great Western Brewing Company, Canadian Brewhouse and the Fraser Institute. 

Hesje received the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce 2018 Northern Lights Award of Distinction for his exceptional leadership and the impact he and Fountain Tire have had on the greater community, and in 2023, he was inducted into the Northern Alberta Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame.