When a Colombian executive takes the top job at the largest convenience store chain in North America, it’s worth paying attention. Mauricio Leyva, a seasoned leader with deep roots in the consumer goods industry, will become CEO of 7-Eleven’s North American operations starting August 1. The move comes as the brand approaches its centennial and launches an ambitious overhaul of thousands of stores.
Leyva’s career spans more than two decades at some of the world’s most recognizable companies. He held senior roles at Grupo Lala, SABMiller, AB InBev, and Keurig Dr Pepper. That kind of experience—navigating complex supply chains, driving innovation, and turning around large-scale operations—is exactly what 7-Eleven needs right now. The company’s parent, Seven & i Holdings, has placed its confidence in Leyva to steer the brand through a period of intense competition and shifting consumer habits.
What Leyva brings to the table
Leyva isn’t just another corporate executive. He’s known for leading successful restructurings and for understanding the nuances of mass-market retail in the Americas. His background includes work in both Latin America and the United States, giving him a bicultural perspective that’s increasingly valuable in today’s retail landscape. As Latino grocery stores reshape Florida's retail landscape, Leyva’s appointment signals that major chains recognize the importance of leaders who understand diverse consumer bases.
One of his biggest challenges will be executing the North Star transformation program. This initiative aims to remodel more than 7,000 7-Eleven locations across the United States between now and 2030. The goal is to modernize the shopping experience, improve store layouts, and better meet the needs of today’s customers—who expect convenience, quality, and speed. It’s a massive undertaking, but Leyva has the operational chops to pull it off.
The timing is also significant. 7-Eleven will celebrate its 100th anniversary in the market just weeks after Leyva takes over. That milestone puts pressure on the company to reinvent itself while honoring its legacy. Leyva will need to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring that the brand remains relevant for another century.
For the Latino community, this appointment is a point of pride. It’s another example of Latin American talent rising to the highest levels of global business. But it’s also a reminder that leadership in retail is becoming more reflective of the diverse populations these companies serve. As New York grocery stores simplify food labels under a new law, similar shifts toward transparency and customer-centricity are happening across the industry.
Leyva’s track record suggests he’s ready for the challenge. At AB InBev, he helped streamline operations and boost profitability. At Keurig Dr Pepper, he focused on brand growth and supply chain efficiency. Those experiences will serve him well as he takes the helm of a network that spans thousands of stores and millions of daily transactions.
The retail world will be watching closely. If Leyva can deliver on the North Star plan, 7-Eleven could set a new standard for convenience stores in North America. And for Latino professionals, his success would be yet another story of achievement worth celebrating.
