G. Wallace McCain

Class of 1993

G. Wallace McCain is a Canadian businessman and co-founder, along with his brothers Andrew, Robert and Harrison, of McCain Foods Limited.

Born in Florenceville, New Brunswick in 1930, Wallace was the 5th son of the family.

He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount Allison University in 1951, following which he worked for Irving Oil, along with his brother Harrison.

Wallace and his brother Harrison founded one of the first factories to process potatoes, turning them into pre-fried frozen french fries. With the benefit of ensured quality and the ability to export long distances with a value added product, the business started growing. With Harrison's personal and business skills backed by Wallace's financial savvy, the business eventually grew to over 55 factories worldwide, and became the number one french fry company in the world.

Mr. McCain was appointed Chairman of the Board of Maple Leaf Foods Inc. following the acquisition of the Company in April 1995. In his current position as Chairman of the Board, Mr. McCain is also director of other associated companies within Maple Leaf Foods Inc.

In 1995, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada for being "one of Atlantic Canada's most notable entrepreneurs". In 2008, he was promoted to a Companion of the Order of Canada. He was inducted into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame in 1997, and in 2003 was awarded the Order of New Brunswick. In 2003 he was also the Canadian International Executive of the Year, and was inducted into the Canadian Manufacturing Hall of Fame in 2006.

He has received honorary degrees from Mount Allison University, the University of King's College and the University of New Brunswick.

He married Margaret McCain, who became the first woman Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick.