May 2, 2018

This morning we had the pleasure of participating in the breakfast series “Petit-déjeuner Inspiration” organized by the HEC Montréal Alumni organization and to meet Mr. Guy Cormier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Desjardins Group and Chair of the Institute’s Board of Governors.

Mr. Cormier told us about his trajectory through the years and at Desjardins, and among the highlights he mentioned were the three goals set for the Desjardins Group for the future:

  1. (Re -) Aligning Desjardins with its purpose. That is, to work for the interest of people, more than offering a great quality of service and great products tailored to their needs.
  2. Being a socio-economic leader in Quebec, harnessing the strengths and potential of Desjardins, both as an insurer and as a provider of financial products.
  3. Asserting Desjardins’ cooperative difference: more than member rewards, it’s above all about highlighting the value of the Movement. In four words, according to Mr. Cormier: simple, human, modern and powerful.

Mr. Cormier also shared some tips for the younger generation that were particularly inspiring and relevant:

  • Trust yourself and trust the world around you. Don’t shoulder all the burdens of the world.
  • Be curious. These days, it’s easy to explore. Open your mind and develop a passion for something.
  • When opportunity comes knocking, open the door.
  • Love and find meaning in what you do.

An unusual breakfast that left us feeling quite inspired!