I believe John is still the CEO, and can still be called the owner, by virtue of his shares in the company. (The term is a generic one and hardly official corporate-speak, in precise terms.) But, he’s more of an overseer now who works with an executive team.
For the record, Menard has a full-bodied personality and is first and foremost a businessman. He can be controversial, like many a business leader, but his tenacious tendencies is what led to his train line. He is also the one who demands top customer service, something which I’m told he still plays an active role.
And he looks pretty good for 80 years old. I’d love to have another conversation with him, but I’m certain he would never tell me anything he doesn’t want anyone outside the company to know.
