Sheldon Burnett has built a career on precision, integrity, and expertise. As a logistics executive with a background in finance and international trade, he has spent decades navigating global markets. His work in commodities has taken him across industries, from currency trading to large-scale logistics.
“I’ve always believed in doing things the right way,” Burnett says. “When you trade commodities or manage logistics, trust and efficiency are everything.”
Early Life and Education
Burnett grew up in Toronto, Canada, as part of a family deeply involved in business. His father, Joseph Burnett, runs Burnac Corporation and Burnac Produce. His brother, Lorne, continues to lead Burnac Produce, while his sister, Gail, manages the family’s luxury jewelry company, Royal De Versailles.
Giving back was always part of their household values. The Burnett family supports charitable initiatives like the Ruth Burnett Center for Outpatient Oncology at Mount Sinai Hospital and the Joseph Burnett Cardiology Center at Toronto General Hospital.
“My family taught me early on that success isn’t just about what you earn,” Burnett reflects. “It’s also about what you give.”
He pursued higher education at the University of Western Ontario, earning a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in International Politics and Military Studies. He then moved to the U.S. to study at the University of Miami, where he earned an MBA and a JD (Cum Laude).
“The combination of business and law has been invaluable,” he says. “It helped me understand both the financial and regulatory sides of global trade.”
From Trading to Logistics
Burnett’s career began in commodity and currency trading. From 1997 to 2010, he worked in fast-moving financial markets, handling large-scale transactions.
“Trading taught me how interconnected the world really is,” Burnett explains. “One shift in currency values or supply chains can ripple across continents.”
Eventually, he transitioned into logistics, overseeing the shipping of commodities like sugar from Brazil to markets worldwide. The shift required a deep understanding of supply chains, regulations, and risk management.
“Logistics is about more than moving goods,” he says. “It’s about ensuring reliability in an unpredictable world.”
His ability to navigate complex systems has made him a respected name in the industry. Burnett emphasizes good character as a key to long-term success.
“You can’t build a career on short-term wins,” he says. “Reputation and relationships are everything.”
Passion for Hockey and Cooking
Outside of work, Burnett enjoys ice hockey and cooking. Growing up in Canada, hockey was part of his life from a young age. “Hockey teaches teamwork and resilience,” he says. “You learn how to adapt quickly, which is useful in business too.” Cooking, on the other hand, is a personal passion. It allows him to unwind and be creative.
“There’s something satisfying about making a great meal from simple ingredients,” he shares. “It’s a different kind of problem-solving.”
Giving Back
Burnett is also committed to philanthropy. After Hurricane Matthew devastated the Bahamas, he dedicated time and resources to relief efforts. His work earned him the Humanity Award, recognizing his contributions.
“The Bahamas holds a special place in my heart,” he says. “Seeing the destruction firsthand made me want to help in any way I could.”
His approach to giving is rooted in practicality.
“Philanthropy isn’t just writing a check,” he says. “It’s about showing up and making a real impact.”
A Legacy of Integrity
Today, Burnett continues to shape the logistics industry. His focus remains on efficiency, integrity, and strategic thinking. He values strong relationships and the ability to adapt in a fast-changing world.
“Markets evolve, technology changes, and new challenges arise,” he says. “But some things never change—trust, hard work, and doing what’s right.”
His journey from trading to logistics reflects a career built on expertise and ethical leadership. As he looks to the future, he remains committed to making a difference in both business and the community.
“Success isn’t just measured by what you accomplish,” Burnett says. “It’s also about how you treat people along the way.”
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