Cooper Equipment names new CEO

Canadian rental company Cooper Equipment Rentals has appointed Brian Spilak as its CEO, effective 1 March, succeeding current CEO Doug Dougherty, who will become executive chair of the board of directors on the same date. Cooper said the change was part of a long-planned leadership succession.

Spilak joined the company in 2016 and was appointed COO in 2023. He has more than 30 years of experience in the equipment rental industry, including roles in operations, fleet management, customer engagement and technology. Cooper said that as COO he has been focused on strengthening Cooper’s operating discipline and technology capabilities.

“Cooper is built on strong fundamentals, a customer-first mindset, and a culture that values execution,” said Spilak. “I am proud to step into this role and build on that foundation. Our focus remains clear: serving our customers exceptionally well, investing in our people, and growing the business in a disciplined and sustainable way across Canada.”

Brian Spilak, CEO, Cooper Equipment Rentals. (Image: Cooper Equipment).

Dougherty, who has been CEO for 15 years, has led the business through a period of dramatic growth, both organic and through acquisitions, expanding from two locations to 89 nationwide. Under his leadership it completed 18 acquisitions, grew to over C$500 million in annual revenue, and built a fleet valued at more than C$1 billion.

“This transition reflects years of deliberate succession planning and confidence in the leadership team we have built,” said Dougherty. “Brian has been instrumental in building Cooper’s operational discipline and customer focus.

“I have full confidence in his ability to lead the company forward. I look forward to supporting Brian and the business in my role as executive chair.”

Doug Dougherty becomes executive chair of the board at cooper equipment Rentals. (Image: Cooper Equipment)

in his new role, Dougherty will focus on board leadership, long-term strategy and “stewardship of Cooper’s culture.”

Seafort Capital, Cooper’s private equity partner, supports the change.

“This is a well-planned leadership transition that reflects the strength of Cooper’s organization and long-term strategy,” said Rob Normandeau, managing partner and president, Seafort Capital.

“We have strong confidence in Brian and the leadership team to continue executing the Company’s strategy and building long-term value.”