The government’s handling of the fatal meat product recall was in sharp contrast to that of the Maple Leaf CEO, who was available. Contrite, precise and apologetic
by BARRY WILSON
The fatal meat product recall crisis that overtook Maple Leaf Foods and the Canadian food inspection and safety system in August represented a case of political controversy and events on the ground converging to create a political hurricane.
In the eye of the hurricane was Maple Leaf Foods CEO Michael McCain, who followed, and perhaps wrote, the book on good crisis communication.
He was available, contrite, precise and apologetic.
He outlined remedial plans and took full blame for the incident, deflecting criticism from the regulators.