IGOPP Announces Executive Leadership Transition and Appoints Louis Lévesque as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

The Board of Directors ensures a seamless transition in support of the Institute's mission and continued growth

MONTREAL, Aug. 31, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of the Institute for Governance of Private and Public Organizations (IGOPP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Louis Lévesque as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2026.

This appointment is part of an orderly leadership transition that will enable the Institute to continue advancing its mission, strengthen its voice and accelerate the implementation of its strategic priorities.

The transition follows François Dauphin's decision to scale back his professional responsibilities for personal reasons after serving as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2020. Effective September 1, Mr. Dauphin will assume the role of Executive Vice-President, Research, where he will focus on advancing the Institute's research agenda and further strengthening its thought leadership and influence on key governance issues.

"François Dauphin has played an instrumental role in strengthening IGOPP's position as a leading voice on governance. His vision, leadership and unwavering commitment have helped build a stronger, more influential Institute that is exceptionally well positioned for its next chapter. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our sincere gratitude for his outstanding contribution over the past several years. We are equally pleased that he will continue to play a pivotal role at IGOPP, where his expertise will further enrich our research and help advance the dialogue on the governance issues that matter most to organizations today," said Guylaine Saucier, Chair of the Board of Directors of IGOPP.

An accomplished leader to guide the Institute through its next chapter

A member of IGOPP's Board of Directors since December 2024, Louis Lévesque brings more than four decades of experience serving public and private sector organizations. A Deputy Minister with the Government of Canada for nearly a decade, former CEO of Finance Montréal, and trusted advisor to numerous institutions, he is widely recognized for his strategic judgment, his ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders and his leadership in guiding organizations through periods of transformation and complex challenges. Over the course of his career, he has remained deeply committed to advancing public policy, governance and economic thought.

"At a time when expectations of organizations and their boards continue to evolve rapidly, IGOPP's role has never been more important. Louis Lévesque brings the experience, strategic judgment and credibility needed to lead the Institute through this next chapter of its development. His leadership will help elevate IGOPP's profile, strengthen its voice in the governance dialogue and foster new opportunities for collaboration across our community," added Guylaine Saucier.

Building on a strong foundation

The Board of Directors continues to diligently oversee the search for a permanent President and Chief Executive Officer.

Over the coming months, IGOPP will build on its strong foundation by strengthening its intellectual leadership and expanding its contribution to the governance issues shaping today's organizations. This new phase of development will be reflected in a stronger public voice, new strategic partnerships and the delivery of significant initiatives in research, executive education and the dissemination of governance best practices.

Among the initiatives already underway are the publication of the Institute's research on the role of proxy advisory firms and new work examining governance issues affecting public sector organizations. Additional projects will be launched in the coming months, further strengthening IGOPP's contribution to directors, executives and public decision-makers.

"IGOPP occupies a unique place within Canada's governance landscape. It is a privilege to contribute to the next stage of the Institute's development. In the months ahead, I will devote my experience to advancing IGOPP's profile, supporting its exceptional team and helping advance initiatives that create lasting value for our entire community," said Louis Lévesque.

"After several years leading IGOPP, I wanted to refocus my professional activities on what has always inspired me most: research, strategic thinking and contributing to the public policy dialogue. I am particularly pleased that Louis Lévesque has agreed to lead this transition. His experience, judgment and vision will be invaluable as the Institute continues to grow. I look forward to continuing to support IGOPP's mission in my new role," concluded François Dauphin.

About IGOPP

Founded in 2005, the Institute for Governance of Private and Public Organizations (IGOPP) is an independent centre of excellence dedicated to advancing governance in both the private and public sectors. Through its research, executive education programs, public policy positions, advisory activities and contributions to public debate, IGOPP provides recognized intellectual leadership and helps advance governance practices that create long-term value. The Institute has established itself as a leading reference for directors, executives and decision-makers across Québec and Canada.

For more information:

Marie-Eve Allaire-Hébert
Director, Strategic Partnerships and Outreach
514 439-9302 | mallaire@igopp.org | www.igopp.org
1000, rue de la Gauchetière Ouest, bureau 3910
Montréal (Québec) H3B 4W5