2023 Star Women in Convenience winner: France Lessard

Director, legal department

JTI-Macdonald Corp.

 

How did you get into the business?

After 11 years in private practice, I was ready for a change. Thirteen years later, I’m still here and loving it. I came for the experience, and I stayed for the people.

What do you like most about your job?

Diversity. I interact with every function of the business. Every day brings a new challenge.

What was the biggest challenge of your career?

I’ve learned not to fear challenges but to embrace them. I’ve leaned on amazing colleagues. Together, we’ve transformed challenges into opportunities.

What's the best advice you ever received? 

Always keep your door open and your profile “green” in Microsoft Teams! This allows me to connect with many colleagues; knowing them makes this journey worth it. 

What's your career proudest achievement?

As an in-house lawyer, I know the business well; if an issue arises or a new project lands on my desk, I can connect the dots to measure the impact of my legal interpretation. 

What work-related accomplishment are you most proud of during the last year?

Creating digital training modules for anyone joining the business from a different industry or country.

What excites you most about the future of this channel? 

It keeps evolving and has shown how resilient it could be. I’m curious to see how it will embrace innovation to adapt to new consumers.

How do you define yourself as a leader?

Leadership is about collaboration and inspiring team members to be their best. I lead by example, bringing passion for my work.

What trend or innovation will shape the business in the next five years?

Artificial intelligence. The concept raises several legal implications but provides tremendous opportunities.

Anything else you would like to add?

I’m honoured to be a Star Woman. Congratulations to all the 2023 Stars, those who have come before, those who will come, and those stars that shine even if they’re not nominated.