- Source: Yuri Leith Fulmer
Yuri Leith Fulmer, OBC (born May 5, 1974) is an Australian-born Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is a member of the Order of British Columbia (2011), and was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012), and was named one of Business In Vancouver's Living Legends in 2021.
Early life
Fulmer was born in Perth, Western Australia to a Canadian father and an Australian mother; as a result, he holds dual citizenship. He came to Vancouver in 1992.
Career
Fulmer has been a transformative figure in the food and hospitality industry of Western Canada. His journey began in 1997 when he acquired his first A&W (Canada) restaurant, leading to the formation of Western Restaurants Franchises Inc (WRFI). This venture expanded to include multiple A&W and Pizza Hut locations across British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.
In 2005, Yuri’s turned towards revitalizing Mr. Mikes Steakhouse and Bar, a chain founded in 1960 that had been reduced to just four locations. Mr. Mikes was rebranded and expanded to 21 locations, generating over $60 million in annual sales. This turnaround culminated in its sale to Yellow Point Equity Partners in two transactions between 2009 and 2010.
In 2010, Yuri Fulmer founded Fulmer & Company, shifting his focus toward investing in various businesses across sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and consumer packaged goods. Since its inception, the company has made investments in over 30 businesses. Fulmer’s approach emphasizes entrepreneurship and business growth, with attention to the needs of the communities where these companies operate.
Philanthropy
Fulmer is recognized for his dedication to philanthropy, marked by significant leadership roles and substantial contributions to various organizations. Notably, he currently serves as the Global Chairman of United Way Worldwide, a position he assumed in 2024. In this role, Fulmer has been key in orchestrating global philanthropic initiatives, enhancing the organization’s impact on a worldwide scale. His journey with United Way began with the United Way of the Lower Mainland, where he was a major force in fundraising efforts, successfully raising over $30 million.
On June 18, 2020, Fulmer was installed as the fourth Chancellor of Capilano University.
In 2019, Yuri established the Fulmer Foundation, which became a focal point for his philanthropic efforts. The foundation actively supports projects that foster community engagement and development. One of the foundation's major initiatives is Goodly Foods™, a social enterprise co-founded by Fulmer & Company in partnership with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. Launched in March 2019, Goodly Foods aims to convert surplus produce into nutritious food products and provide employment opportunities to individuals facing significant employment barriers.
Politics
On July 22, 2024, Fulmer was announced as the Conservative Party of British Columbia candidate for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in the 2024 British Columbia general election. Fulmer was defeated by Green Party candidate Jeremy Valeriote.
Awards and honours
Canada's Top Forty Under 40, 2008
British Columbia Community Achievement Award, 2010
Order of British Columbia
Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal, 2012 for his contribution to Canadian communities
The Joseph and Rosalie Community Vision Award, 2014
Business in Vancouver Living Legends, 2021
2011 Recipient: Yuri Fulmer – North Vancouver: Order of BC
Entrepreneur of the Year, Finalist, 2010 - Ernst & Young
Chancellor of Capilano University
BC500 The Most Influential Business Leaders, Business in Vancouver, 2023
