Montreal Chamber of Commerce head Michel Leblanc steps down after 16 years

After 16 years at its helm, Metropolitan Montreal Chamber of Commerce head Michel Leblanc will step down from his position. (Ryan Remiorz / The Canadian Press)

After over a decade-and-a-half at the head of the Montreal Chamber of Commerce, Michel Leblanc is stepping down.

The outgoing president and CEO began serving on the board in 2009 and said he will leave in the spring.

“I will leave the chamber with a sense of accomplishment,” said Leblanc in a news release. “First and foremost, the chamber is a formidable team of extremely competent and dedicated people, working tirelessly for the metropolis and its businesses… In closing, I have a special thought for our companies and our members: I have always taken great pride in being your voice and defending your interests. I hope I have served you well.”

The chamber’s board of directors has set up a selection committee to find Leblanc’s replacement.

Leblanc holds a masters degree in economics from the University de Montreal and has sat on various boards and committees in Montreal.

Board chair Philippe Johnson offered his gratitude for Leblanc’s service.

“Under his leadership, the chamber has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have shaped the metropolis' economic landscape,” he said. “Whether with Je Vois Mtl, the Leaders International series, Relançons MTL or J'aime travailler au centre-ville, Michel's vision put the Chamber at the heart of all major issues. He leaves behind a first-rate, solid and influential organization.”

Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante saluted Leblanc's work at the chamber on X.

"The Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal is a key player in making the voices of merchants and businesses in the city of Montreal heard," wrote Plante.

Leblanc did not comment on his future plans.

The Metropolitan Montreal Chamber of Commerce (CCMM) includes around 8,000 members and functions as the voice of the metropolis’s business community.