John’s Final Bow: A Celebration of Leadership at OECM

On June 19, OECM’s office at 2 Lansing Square was transformed into a dazzling stage to celebrate an exceptional leader. John Sabo, who has dedicated over eight years as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OECM, took his final bow at a retirement party themed around the musical, Les Misérables, in honour of John’s love for musical theatre. The office was decorated with a “Now Playing” poster and Playbills detailing John’s illustrious career. Attendees walked the red carpet, setting the tone for an afternoon of celebration, nostalgia, and a spread of delicious appetizers.

The event was attended by OECM staff, former Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Education, Nancy Naylor, former Executive Director of COSBO and former member of our Customer Council Committee, Pete DeRochie, OECM’s Board of Directors, Greg Treffry, Chair of Audit and Finance Committee, and Kevin Kobus, Chair of the Customer Council Committee, several distinguished leaders from the public sector, and John’s friends and family. The gathering was a testament to the widespread respect and admiration that John has garnered over his tenure at this organization.

John has led OECM through significant growth and transformation, marked by innovation, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Under his eight years of leadership, OECM reached over $4 billion in collaborative spend, grew our Marketplace to feature nearly 500 supplier partners, raised over $110,000 for charitable causes, established the Sector Success Sharing program, and expanded our reach well beyond the education sector. Colleagues and friends alike praised his vision, leadership, and the personal warmth he brought to the role. In a series of heartfelt speeches, attendees reminisced about John’s dedication and achievements. Leaders from the public sector lauded John’s collaborative spirit and efforts to drive procurement efficiencies across Ontario.

The highlight of the afternoon was John’s speech, in which he reflected on his journey at OECM, expressed gratitude to his colleagues, and shared his best wishes for the organization’s future. It was a poignant moment, pronouncing the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for John and OECM.

As the event drew to a close, it was clear that John Sabo’s legacy at OECM is one of transformative leadership and enduring friendships. John’s Final Bow was not just a farewell but a celebration of a remarkable journey that has left a lasting impression on all those privileged to work with him.

Thank you, John, OECM wishes you a happy and healthy retirement journey!