Craig Cannonier: Career Trajectory and Political Transition
Craig Cannonier has maintained a diverse professional portfolio, spanning the sectors of human resources, retail management, telecommunications, and national governance. His career is marked by a transition from corporate leadership and entrepreneurship to the highest levels of political office.
Professional Beginnings and Retail Management
Cannonier started his professional journey at the MarketPlace Group, where he developed a foundational skill set in organizational operations. His primary responsibilities during this tenure included human resources, training, and purchasing.
Following this, he spent a decade as the general manager of a People's Drug pharmacy. During this ten-year period, he played a pivotal role in ensuring the location remained independently owned, successfully avoiding the acquisition of 490 People's Drug stores by CVS.
Expansion into Telecommunications and Energy
Before transitioning into the energy sector, Cannonier served as a relationship manager for Cable & Wireless, a major telecommunications provider. This role allowed him to bridge the gap between corporate services and client management.
Currently, Cannonier manages several key energy retail locations in Bermuda, including Esso City Tigermarket, Collector's Hill Esso, and Warwick Esso.
Political Leadership and Resignation
Beyond his business ventures, Cannonier served as the Premier. However, his political tenure ended following the "Jetgate" scandal, a controversy that led to his resignation from the office. Following his departure, Michael Dunkley, the former leader of the United Bermuda Party (UBP), assumed the position of Premier.
Key Facts
- Early Career: Managed HR, training, and purchasing at MarketPlace Group.
- Retail Success: Prevented a People's Drug location from being acquired by CVS during a 490-store buyout.
- Corporate Experience: Worked as a relationship manager for Cable & Wireless.
- Current Business: Operates Esso City Tigermarket, Collector's Hill Esso, and Warwick Esso.
- Political Exit: Resigned as Premier due to the "Jetgate" scandal.
| Organization/Role | Key Responsibilities/Achievements |
|---|---|
| MarketPlace Group | Human resources, training, and purchasing |
| People's Drug | General Manager; maintained independent ownership against CVS acquisition |
| Cable & Wireless | Relationship Manager |
| Esso Bermuda | Operator of City Tigermarket, Collector's Hill, and Warwick locations |
| Premier | National leadership; resigned following Jetgate scandal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Craig Cannonier's role at the MarketPlace Group?
At the MarketPlace Group, Cannonier was responsible for purchasing, training, and human resources.
How did Cannonier handle the CVS acquisition of People's Drug?
While serving as general manager for ten years, Cannonier helped his specific People's Drug pharmacy location remain independently owned rather than becoming part of the 490-store acquisition by CVS.
Which Esso locations does Craig Cannonier currently run?
He currently manages Esso City Tigermarket, Collector's Hill Esso, and Warwick Esso.
Why did Craig Cannonier resign as Premier?
Cannonier resigned from the position of Premier in the wake of the "Jetgate" scandal.
Who succeeded Craig Cannonier as Premier?
Michael Dunkley, the former leader of the UBP, took over the position after Cannonier's resignation.