Quebec City, February 22, 2024 – The Council of Ministers, appointed Mr. Bruno Labrecque as interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). He will replace the current President and Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Manuelle Oudar, who has been appointed as an independent senator.Mr. Bruno Labrecque will take office on February 26, 2024.
He is a chartered professional accountant. Having arrived at the Commission in November 1996, he held various managerial positions before being appointed in April 2017 as Vice-President of Information, Material and Real Estate Resources. Since December 2018, he has been Vice-President of Finance. Mr. Labrecque has performed several functions within the organization, has solid experience and extensive knowledge of the CNESST, all undeniable assets for his new role.The CNESST commends Ms. Manuelle Oudar for her remarkable leadership and impact as President and CEO over eight years, leaving a legacy through initiatives like the CNESST’s creation, head office construction, over 120 online services, and labor law reforms.
Her guidance was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the organization’s role in occupational health and safety. Under her direction, the CNESST earned numerous accolades, including the 2022 United Nations Public Service Award. Ms. Oudar herself received several honors, such as the AFFQ Leadership Award, ranking among Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, the 2023 YWCA Montreal Woman of Distinction Award, and the 2023 Executive of the Year Award from the Ordre des CRHA, demonstrating her commitment to Quebec society.
Quotes:
“There is no doubt that Mr. Labrecque’s solid experience will enable him to perform well in his new role at the CNESST and to carry out its mission for the benefit of workplaces. I would like to congratulate Ms. Oudar on her appointment as a senator. I wish to thank her for her achievements, her professionalism and her dedication these past eight years as President and CEO of the CNESST.”
– Jean Boulet, Minister of Labour and Minister Responsible for the Mauricie Region, the Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region and the Nord-du-Québec Region
“On behalf of all members of the board of directors, I would like to congratulate Mr. Bruno Labrecque on his appointment. His qualities and experience will help us to continue the CNESST’s mission together. I can assure him of my support and the support of every member of the board of directors as he takes on his new role. I would also like to congratulate Ms. Manuelle Oudar on her appointment as a senator and wish to thank her both personally and on behalf of all board members for her significant contribution to the CNESST’s mission and to promoting social dialogue. Her professionalism, rigour, passion and human qualities have marked her eight years as President and CEO of the CNESST.”
– Louise Otis, Chair, CNESST board of directors
