Don Wehby, the Group Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Limited, has announced a temporary leave of absence due to health-related issues. In a notice to staff, Wehby expressed that this decision, though difficult, is necessary for both his well-being and that of the company.
The specifics of Wehby’s medical condition remain undisclosed, but his leave will commence on Monday, with no clear timeline for his return to the position he has held since 2011. During his absence, Andrew Messado, the Chief Financial Officer of GraceKennedy Group, will oversee daily operations, ensuring that the company’s activities proceed without interruption.
“Andrew has been an integral part of GraceKennedy for 25 years and has worked alongside me as a director since 2019,” Wehby noted, emphasizing his confidence in Messado’s capabilities to manage the company’s affairs effectively. He reassured employees that he would still engage with the company at a strategic level during this period.
Looking ahead, Wehby, who also serves as a senator in the government, expressed optimism about returning to his full responsibilities in the near future.
Since taking the helm of GraceKennedy in 2011, Wehby has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and development. His tenure began in 1995 when he joined as group finance manager, later progressing through various leadership roles including deputy finance director and group chief financial officer. In 2005, he became the deputy chief executive officer and chief executive officer of GK Investments. Following a two-year stint as a government senator and Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance, Wehby returned to lead GraceKennedy, steering the company through various challenges and milestones.
His temporary leave comes as a surprise to many in the corporate sector, but Wehby’s long-standing dedication and leadership have instilled confidence in the team, promising continuity in operations and strategic vision for the future.
