Cascades names new president and CEO

Kingsey Falls, Québec-based paper and packaging board producer Cascades Inc. has appointed Hugues Simon as its new president and CEO.

Simon currently serves as president of the wood products business unit at Montreal-based Resolute Forest Products and will assume his new role no later than July 1.

“I am proud to join a company that is recognized as a pioneer in recycling and the circular economy committed to innovation and a client-centric approach, all of which is reflected in the quality of its products and its people," Simon says.

“I look forward to working with all the employees and continuing the important work begun under Mario’s leadership, ensuring the company’s long-term growth and value creation. I would like to thank Cascades’ board of directors for their confidence.”

Cascades says the appointment follows an extensive succession planning and recruitment process, supported by an international firm, in anticipation of current President and CEO Mario Plourde’s planned retirement.

After more than 11 years at the helm of the company, Plourde will support Simon during a transition period lasting until the end of this year in a role as a special advisor.

“It is with great emotion that I am announcing my retirement after nearly 40 years at Cascades," Plourde says. "It has been a great privilege to work with the Lemaire family and the entire Cascades team. I am leaving with the knowledge that the company is in an excellent position as it embarks on this new chapter.”

“Mario is a visionary who has contributed greatly to building Cascades into the company it is today. Under his leadership, several major projects were successfully completed, including Cascades’ largest investment ever: the Bear Island project in Virginia.”

Founded in 1964, Cascades offers sustainable packaging and hygiene products and recycling services. The company employs 10,000 people in a network of nearly 70 facilities in North America.