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Hydro-Québec expands two management positions to achieve strategic objectives

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Hydro-Québec expands two management positions to achieve strategic objectives
(photo courtesy Hydro-Quebec)

Canadian provincial utility Hydro-Québec announced that two of its managers will take on broader mandates because the utility is facing historic challenges as the demand for electricity rises rapidly and climate change is having an impact on the grid.

Given this context, electricity production must be ramped up while the use of this precious resource must be optimized. Measures must also be taken to ensure that Quebecers enjoy reliable, high-quality service. Such objectives call for an organization focused on strategic priorities, with simplified and accelerated decision-making. To achieve this, two experienced Hydro-Québec managers will take on broader mandates, effective Oct. 2.

First, Claudine Bouchard was named executive vice president and chief operating and infrastructure officer. Bouchard is currently in charge of the design and management of the energy system and will now also be responsible for operation and maintenance of the energy system, as well as ensuring its resiliency in the face of increasingly extreme weather conditions.

Bringing together these complementary activities within a single group will allow the company to simultaneously pursue the increase in capacity that Québec needs while also improving service to customers, according to a release. The health and safety of employees and the public will also be at the heart of her mandate.

Bouchard has more than 20 years of experience at Hydro-Québec in a range of fields, including communications, operation and maintenance, organizational transformation and infrastructure project management.

Second, Dave Rhéaume was named executive VP – energy planning and customer experience. In addition to his current responsibilities for energy needs planning and risk management, Rhéaume will also oversee customer experience, energy efficiency and rates.

This adjustment demonstrates the utility’s desire to put customers at the heart of its decisions, from integrated resource planning to the marketing of our offers to different market segments, according to a release.

Rhéaume has worked in the energy sector for more than 10 years, with roles in rates, regulatory affairs and supply planning.

“Claudine and Dave have extensive expertise in the energy sector and deep knowledge of Hydro-Québec. I am confident in their ability to mobilize teams to meet the major challenges ahead,” said Michael Sabia, president and chief executive officer of Hydro-Québec. “Together with the rest of the management team, this fall we will work on an action plan that will lead to a clear road map and initiatives to be carried out quickly, in conjunction with community partners.”

Hydro-Québec generates, transmits and distributes electricity. It is Canada’s largest electricity producer and one of the largest hydroelectric producers in the world, sourcing most of its electricity supply from hydroelectric generating stations. Its sole shareholder is the Quebec government.