Mario Plourde is to become President and Chief Executive Officer of Cascades, headquartered in Kingsey Falls, Quebec, on May 9 2013, succeeding the company’s long-time leader Alain Lemaire.
“Of course, I will continue to support Mario in his daily activities, and I also intend to remain involved with the company, returning to my original passion by putting my technical skills to use in the various groups,” stated Lemaire, who is to continue as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Lemaire made the announcement flanked by his two brothers, Bernard and Laurent, who will also remain active with the company and serve on its board.
Plourde, who currently holds the position of Chief Operating Officer of Cascades, was actually targeted to become the company’s next CEO almost two years ago, as part of a thorough leadership succession plan.
“We had a plan, and we carried it out,” stated Alain Lemaire. “After nearly 10 years at the head of the company, my brothers and I feel it is time to pass on the torch and make room for the younger generation.”
Plourde arrived at Cascades in 1985 and occupied various positions including Controller, Plant Manager and General Manager. In 1997, he was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the Specialty Products Group, and was President of this group from 2000 to 2010. He has been managing the entire company’s operations since 2011, as Chief Operating Officer of Cascades, which includes three major divisions (Tissue Group, Containerboard Group and Specialty Products Group).
“I’d like to thank Bernard, Laurent and Alain for the trust they are placing in me,” stated Plourde. “It is a real honour to take over the reins of the company they have built with their own hands, and that has become one of the most admired businesses in the province.
“I am looking forward to perpetuating the values of the company, and taking the torch they have carried for close to 50 years. I want Cascades employees to know that they can count on me to be there, and that I am fully committed and dedicated to the company. In these challenging economic times, it is more important than ever to remain unified, stay the course and build an increasingly efficient business.”
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