We had the privilege of speaking with Mr. Champagne, currently interim vice-rector of human and organizational development at UQAM and a former employee at Roy.
Mr. Champagne shares his thoughts on his fascinating journey, marked by significant transitions from school to the professional world, and from cleaning services to management. He made the most of every lesson, every encounter and every opportunity to become a key player in negotiation, team building and large-scale project management.
Let's dive into this captivating conversation, which highlights the influence his time at Roy. had on his career, rich in varied experiences.
How did your transition from school to the working world go?
« I completed a session and a half at Cégep Édouard-Montpetit in a general program before dropping out of school. At such a young age, I didn't feel ready to make a career choice that would impact the rest of my life.
After leaving cégep, I started my career at Roy. as a commercial cleaning attendant. And guess at which site? Cégep Édouard-Montpetit! Coming back to campus, but this time in a role quite different from the student role I was used to, was rather ironic. It turned out to be a good decision, since by age 19 I was already leading a team of 15 people. »
How did you manage to climb the ranks and take on management responsibilities at such a young age at Roy.?
« The contract managers I worked for noticed my work ethic and my commitment to the company. Over time, I was given more and more responsibilities, which propelled me to the position of foreman at just 19 years old. Afterward, I climbed the ranks at Roy. by becoming assistant to the director of procurement at the head office (covering a maternity leave), then I was formally appointed to that position after a few more months as foreman again, before finally reaching the position of director of procurement and IT. These opportunities allowed me to dive into the world of management very early on and laid the foundation for nearly 35 years of enriching experience in this ever-evolving field! »
How did Roy. support your desire to broaden your skills?
« In my late twenties, the desire to open up new prospects for my career led me to go back to school in a field I had always been passionate about: computer science. Despite my strong determination and years of experience at Roy., I hadn't earned a college diploma, which reduced my chances of being admitted to a university program. So I attended UQAM's open house and learned that admission based on experience was possible. In fact, I remember being told that UQAM, since its founding, has had a mission to promote accessibility to higher education, and they explained how to apply for admission.
It was in this context that Julie Roy's uncle, who headed a computer company, gave me invaluable support by writing a letter of recommendation. That letter allowed me to fulfill my ambition by completing a certificate in management information systems at UQAM. »
How did your decision to pursue university studies contribute to your professional growth?
« After completing my certificate in management information systems, I continued my training by earning two more university certificates in management, aimed at developing specific skills that I was able to apply in my professional field. These various programs broadened my job prospects. Following my 17 years at Roy., I was able to grow within complex and stimulating professional environments, particularly in the university and healthcare sectors.
In 2015, I completed a cumulative bachelor's degree in management at Université Laval. Earning my bachelor's degree was a crucial factor in my path toward the position of director of a building services division at UQAM. In the years that followed, I continued to advance within this organization with increasingly strategic responsibilities, eventually reaching my current role as interim vice-rector of Human and Organizational Development since June 2023. »
What lesson learned at Roy. still serves you in your role as vice-rector at UQAM today?
« My years at Roy. taught me the importance of favouring simplicity, an essential element for making the most of every situation. In complex environments, it's common for bureaucracy to creep in and needlessly weigh down processes.
At Roy., challenges and issues never took on unnecessary proportions. Every situation is approached with simplicity and humility, and the entire team is focused on finding solutions. Julie Roy shows that it's entirely possible to run a thriving business while finding enjoyment in the work and making the most of every situation.
That's actually a principle I've always carried into my own role, constantly looking for ways to improve efficiency and simplify teams' work wherever possible. Whether through developing innovations, using effective technologies and tools, providing access to training, or offering support… I immerse myself in their day-to-day reality, take stock of their situations, and introduce solutions suited to their needs. »
How has your experience at Roy. influenced your approach to human resources?
« My journey at Roy. was shaped by caring people who invested in my development and believed in my potential. Today, I have the privilege of holding a position that allows me to create opportunities for advancement and growth for the people around me. It's essential that people with potential be given the chance to reach where they can truly excel. I stay attentive to the needs and interests of those around me in order to offer professional opportunities aligned with their skills and ambitions!
In parallel, I'm currently working on a major project aimed at creating university scholarships for the UQAM foundation. Due to health issues, I need to plan the final stretch of my professional career. These scholarships will be my legacy for the future. It's my own way of giving back, a cause that is deeply important to me. The university scholarship project is progressing well, and I'll be launching the fundraising campaign in a few weeks. »
What would you say to someone who is hesitant to apply at Roy.?
« Don't hesitate to apply for the position you're interested in! Roy. is an employer of choice that offers attractive working conditions. You'll also have the opportunity to grow within this caring company, which has a truly inspiring organizational culture. »
