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Management

AUTOCANADA APPOINTS SAMUEL COCHRANE AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

By The Northwire Desk — AI Analysis Feb 18, 2026 · 08:15 ACQ · 27.5 AUTOCANADA INC.
ACQ · Price

Executive Summary

  • AutoCanada Inc. announced the appointment of Samuel Cochrane as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
  • Mr. Cochrane will also serve as Interim Chief Financial Officer while a permanent CFO is sought.
  • The Board highlighted his prior leadership experience and expects his appointment to strengthen dealership performance, accelerate growth in the collision business, and create long‑term value.

Key Details

  • Appointment: Samuel Cochrane named CEO (effective Feb 18 2026) and Interim CFO.
  • Background: Joined AutoCanada Aug 2024 as CFO; served as Interim CEO from Oct 2025. Previously CFO of Sierra Wireless and Avigilon, with senior roles at Motorola Solutions and SNC‑Lavalin. Chartered Accountant, B.Comm (UBC).
  • Board Statement: Chair Christopher Harris praised Cochrane’s decisive leadership, operational focus, and ability to drive accountability across the dealership network.
  • CEO Quote: Cochrane emphasized returning dealerships to “operational roots,” simplifying processes, disciplined capital allocation, and prioritizing customer‑first culture.
  • Strategic Focus: Stabilize dealership business, enhance operational discipline, assess performance organization‑wide, and leverage growth opportunities in the collision segment.
  • Interim CFO Role: Cochrane will oversee finance while a search for a permanent CFO is underway.

Notable Quotes

“During his tenure, Sam has demonstrated decisive leadership and a deep understanding of AutoCanada's business,” – Christopher Harris, Chair of the Board.

“I am excited to lead AutoCanada at such a pivotal point in the Company's transformation… Our collision business continues to perform well, offers significant growth opportunities…” – Samuel Cochrane, CEO & Interim CFO.

Read the original news release →

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