At the 38th investiture ceremony in Québec City, Premier François Legault decorated 22 new members of the Ordre national du Québec for their exceptional contribution to Quebec society, notably Louis-Marie Beaulieu, President and CEO of Groupe Desgagnés. As an Officer, Mr Beaulieu joins some 1,200 people who have been admitted to the Order since the first ceremony in 1985.
These appointments are made official by government decree, with a view to the presentation of the insignia, which takes place each year in June, in conjunction with the Fête nationale du Québec.
Mr. Beaulieu’s appointment was accompanied by the following description:
“A visionary and passionate shipowner, Louis-Marie Beaulieu has been at the helm of Groupe Desgagnés for over 35 years, having acquired the company on the eve of its 30th anniversary. Still based in Quebec City and specialising in maritime transport, Groupe Desgagnés has enjoyed solid growth under his leadership, supported by a state-of-the-art fleet.
“With its significant socio-economic contribution, the company is now recognised as a flagship of the national and international maritime industry, as well as a leader in supplying isolated communities and industries in the Canadian Arctic, the Lower North Shore and Anticosti Island. Backed by a passionate team that shares his values of integrity, respect for stakeholders and commitment, and a modus operandi based on excellence, Mr Beaulieu has steered Desgagnés through wind and tide, achieving a number of world firsts and demonstrating major innovation, particularly in terms of the environment and sustainable development. His motto is « always be proud of what you do to be proud of who you are » and that « it’s the details that determine the winner ».
“Since the beginning of his career, Louis-Marie Beaulieu has been involved in the community and has sat on numerous boards of directors of organisations, government corporations and private companies. A great philanthropist, he provides financial support, both personally and through Desgagnés, for initiatives that promote health, education, culture and social support.”
( Photo : Patrick Lachance)