TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan 15, 2014) -

Editors note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

At a gala luncheon held today at the Eaton Chelsea Toronto, the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Toronto presented John E. Betts, President and CEO, McDonald's Canada, with its prestigious CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations. This year marks the 21st time the annual award was presented which recognizes a chief executive officer who is committed to being an outstanding communicator and who clearly and consistently articulates the organization's shared mission, vision and values with a broad range of stakeholders to achieve its business goals.

As the visionary leader behind McDonald's Canada brand transformation and the bold initiatives that have strengthened the customer connection with the brand, Mr. Betts is widely recognized for demonstrating how communications can be a game changer in business strategy and generating business results.

Mr. Betts exemplifies the fundamental nature of innovation and continues to build and enhance the McDonald's brand by staying focused on the customer experience to drive performance and remain a strong industry leader.

Since assuming the role in 2008, McDonald's has achieved significant success and incredible business momentum, undertaken a comprehensive restaurant reimaging program, and has introduced a new and contemporary menu to Canada including McCafé and the Signature McWrap.

"The Society was thrilled to present John Betts with this year's CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations," said CPRS Toronto CEO Award Chair Vincent Power, who introduced Mr. Betts to the more than 150 attendees at today's luncheon. "Mr. Betts has been a key player in McDonald's brand transformation story, and the bold tactics taken to spark a connection with consumers. He is very deserving of this special honour, and we are pleased that this magnificent trophy will be housed at McDonald's for the next year so that employees can participate in the recognition the company has achieved today."

"At McDonald's Canada we're proud of our brand story and passionate about sharing it whether it's in our restaurants or communities," said Mr. Betts. "It's an honour to be recognized for our achievements and for me to accept such a distinguished award on behalf of all our dedicated McDonald's family and partners."

The selection committee for the CPRS Toronto Award is made up of past CPRS Toronto presidents, all of whom are accredited Public Relations professionals.

CEO Award Recipients are:

  • Sheldon Levy, President and vice chancellor of Ryerson University (2013-2014)
  • Dr. Robert S. Bell, CEO of the University Health Network (2011-2012)
  • Jim Leech, CEO of Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (2010-2011)
  • Robert Deluce, President and CEO, Porter Airlines (2009-2010)
  • Galen G. Weston, Executive Chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited (2008-2009)
  • Frances Lankin, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Toronto (2007-2008)
  • The late Richard Bradshaw, General Director, Canadian Opera Company (2006-2007)
  • Michael Budman and Don Green, Co-founders, Roots Canada (2005-2006)
  • Wayne Sales, President and CEO, Canadian Tire (2004-2005)
  • Piers Handling, CEO, Toronto International Film Festival (2003-2004)
  • Julian Fantino, Police Chief, Toronto Police Service (2002-2003)
  • Charles Baillie, Chair, TD Bank Financial Group (2001-2002)
  • Dominic D'Alessandro, President and CEO, Manulife Financial (2000-2001)
  • Bobbie Gaunt, President and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Canada (1999-2000)
  • Diane McGarry, President and CEO, Xerox Canada Inc. (1998-1999)
  • Allan Stark, President and CEO, American Express Company Canada (1997-1998)
  • George Cohon, President and CEO, McDonald's Restaurants of Canada (1996-1997)
  • John Cassaday, President and CEO, CTV (1995-1996)
  • David Bloom, President and CEO, Shoppers Drug Mart (1992-1993)
  • Peter H. Ellis, President and CEO, Sunnybrook Medical Centre (1991-1992)

The Canadian Public Relations Society is a national professional organization focused on establishing and upholding educational and ethical standards in Public Relations. CPRS Toronto is one of the largest local societies with nearly 600 members. For more information, please visit: http://www.cprstoronto.com.

Special thanks to our sponsors of the 2013-14 CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations.

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20140115-CPRSCEOAward1.jpg.