By: SEO Mavens

Yanick Graveline is a distinguished executive director from Québec, QC, Canada, with a robust background in business and leadership across various sectors. With an MBA, MSc in Chemistry, and several advanced certificates, including a Post-MBA in Business Coaching and a Directors Education Program from the Rotman School, University of Toronto, Yanick has built a career marked by strategic insight and a passion for driving organizational success. His experiences have ranged from general management roles in manufacturing and agri-food industries to high-level board positions in organizations like the International Lifesaving Society and Caisse Desjardins.

Here, Yanick shares his insights on leadership, change management, and the importance of sustainability in business.

How do you approach change management in an organization, and what strategies have you found to be effective?

Change management is critical, particularly in dynamic sectors where I’ve often operated. My approach is fundamentally about engagement and communication. It’s crucial to involve every layer of the organization in the process, ensuring that change is not just top-down but also embraced from the ground up. I leverage cross-functional teams to foster a sense of ownership and use transparent communication to align everyone towards common objectives. Over the years, I’ve learned that effective change management also requires a clear vision and the flexibility to adjust strategies as scenarios evolve.

Given your extensive experience in board roles, what qualities do you believe are essential for a board director during economic shifts?

During economic shifts, a board director needs to exhibit foresight, resilience, and adaptability. The ability to anticipate market trends and potential challenges allows us to prepare and position our organizations advantageously. Resilience is about staying the course even when faced with setbacks, while adaptability means adjusting strategies as needed. These qualities, combined with a deep understanding of the business’s core operations and financial health, empower a board to guide an organization through turbulent times effectively.

What role does sustainability play in your business strategies, and how do you integrate it within the organizations you lead?

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. In my leadership roles, particularly in sectors like agri-food and manufacturing, sustainability drives innovation and operational efficiencies. I integrate sustainable practices by setting clear, measurable goals that align with broader environmental and social objectives. This might include reducing waste, optimizing resource use, or investing in sustainable technologies. It’s about creating a culture where sustainability is valued not just for compliance but as a cornerstone of the business model that can drive long-term success.

How do you maintain motivation and drive within your teams, especially during challenging times?

Maintaining motivation is all about leadership style and organizational culture. I prioritize communication and recognition. Regularly sharing the organization’s vision and progress helps keep the team aligned and motivated. Recognizing individual and team achievements, even small ones, goes a long way in boosting morale. During challenging times, I focus on being accessible and supportive, providing my teams with the resources they need and ensuring that they feel valued and understood.

With your diverse educational background, how do you apply your scientific training in your current business leadership roles?

My scientific training, particularly in chemistry and biochemistry, has instilled a methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving. In business, this translates to a data-driven approach to decision-making. Whether it’s analyzing market trends, assessing operational efficiencies, or developing new products, my scientific background helps me to question assumptions, rigorously test theories, and rely on empirical data to guide strategies. This foundation has been invaluable in driving innovation and efficiency across the organizations I lead.

Key Takeaways

Emphasis on Comprehensive Change Management

Sustainability as a Core Business Strategy

Leadership Adaptability During Economic Shifts

Published by: Nelly Chavez