"I have enjoyed serving this co-op so much it is hard to imagine not being a part of the day-to-day activities here," Bye said. "My deep connection to the co-op and its people made this a difficult decision, but I feel the time has come for me to investigate new adventures."

"ECE Board Chairman Joe Morley said, "Garry has led ECE with finesse through some challenging periods. He boldly brought us through two mergers, supported a major strengthening of plant and has developed a staff that is second to none. We are grateful for all the years of service Garry has provided and wish him the very best in retirement."

The board of directors has set in motion a nationwide search for ECE's next President/CEO. The board plans to hire a successor before Bye's effective retirement date this fall.

"Our task as a board," Morley said, "will be to hire a President/CEO who can take this great co-op successfully into the future while maintaining the mission, vision and foundational values that have been built over the years."