Claudette Simoneau

How has the role of women changed since you joined Cascades?

I began my career as a secretary-receptionist, and quickly learned the ins and outs of bookkeeping using a manual accounting system. I also worked on financial statements. Over the years, the addition of new units meant we had to hire controllers, and it was mostly women who filled those positions.

In 1978, Cascades took on its first student intern: none other than Suzanne Blanchet, who later served as President of Cascades Tissue Group from 1998 to 2014. Elise Pelletier, who became the first Personnel Manager in 1982, was the first person to be assigned duties exclusively devoted to human resources. Upon her retirement in 2003, she was VicePresident, Human Resources for Cascades Containerboard Packaging. Today, she sits on the Cascades Board of Directors. Maryse Fernet followed a similar path. She was hired as a human resources manager in 1987 and now serves as Chief Human Resources Officer. Cascades has always welcomed women with ambitious career goals who are keen to take on leadership positions.

What was the most memorable moment of your career?

There have been so many! As for the standouts, I was involved in the development of profit-sharing from 1970 to today, I saw the introduction of IT in 1976 and I was there when Cascades was listed on the stock exchange in 1983. The premature death of my supervisor, Fernand Cloutier, at the age of 46, also had a big impact on me because he was my first mentor at Cascades. In 1991, I agreed to return to work full-time under the supervision of Norman Boisvert, who was very patient and generous with his support as I settled into my position. It was a major career decision, as I had been working part-time since the birth of my first child in 1978. Returning to work full-time was a life choice I felt proud of, and I knew that I’d be taking on greater responsibilities.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned?

My biggest lesson was simply the ongoing process of learning and adapting to new technologies and to the company’s growing needs. I really learned on the job, as they say. For example, when Cascades was listed on the stock exchange, I knew that I was going to have to overcome major challenges to learn new processes and master financial accounting. But I have to say, the people I’ve worked with over the years have always been very generous with their guidance and support.

What will you miss most about Cascades?

No doubt, the thing I’ll miss most is the chance to work with a great team and amazing people on a daily basis. I feel privileged to have always enjoyed a respectful work environment. Throughout my 50-year career, I have always felt like a part of the Cascades family.

I would like to thank Bernard, Laurent, Alain and Mario for trusting me all these years, because without Cascades, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I would also like to thank Line Couture, my valued colleague and friend of the past 40 years, as well as Luc, my brother and office neighbour, who has also worked at Cascades for over 30 years. I want to thank my immediate colleagues as well: Sonia Turcotte, Manon Bordeleau, Alan Savoie, Isabelle Côté, Mélanie Bouffard, Francine Boissonneault, Jennifer Dingle and Maryse Fernet. But you have to know when it’s time to turn the page, I am ready to start this new chapter of my life.

What are you looking forward to?

I hope to stay in good health. With good health, anything is possible!

At 68, I just want to keep fit and enjoy all the simple pleasures of everyday life. I check the news every morning, I do my crossword puzzle and my sudoku. I go on regular walks and enjoy being out in nature. I want to spend time with my spouse and the families of my three children (one of whom works for Cascades Tissue Group - Kingsey Falls), and, of course, my seven grandchildren, who are my pride and joy. And I would obviously like to get back to travelling once that becomes an option again!