Appointment of female Interim CEO at the STM

“The first woman to make her mark on the STM at this level was Louise Roy, who was our President and CEO nearly 40 years ago. Francine Gauthier was offered the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer in 2002,” said Caldwell. “I am extremely proud that another woman is now assuming that mantle in 2022. Ms. Léonard has all the qualifications that this position demands, owing in particular to her finely tuned, in-depth knowledge of the company.”

Léonard holds a bachelor’s degree in medical biology and a graduate diploma in management from HEC Montréal. She has worked for the STM for 30 years, including 20 years as a manager. Having begun her career as an STM agent when she was a student, she rose through the ranks to the position of Executive Director, Bus and Métro Operations, which she has held since September 2021. She has been a member of the executive committee for the last six years. In addition, she serves on several international committees, including the Board of Directors of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP).

“After 30 years of gaining experience and rising through the ranks here at the STM, I am honoured to have been offered the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer,” said Léonard. “I am counting on the collaboration of our internal and external partners, and under my leadership, improving the customer experience will remain a top priority. The STM will continue to provide services that are safe, reliable, accessible and affordable, while remaining a key player in the Montréal area’s sustainable development strategy.”

During this interim period, Léonard will have the unwavering support of her colleagues on the executive committee and of the Board of Directors in carrying out her work. In the near future, a thorough internal and external recruitment process will be set in motion to select a permanent CEO.

Marie-Claude Léonard, Interim Chief Executive Officer