Hurrying the bloom by plucking the petals is futile.
A Weekly Spotlight on the Business Community: Jean Bélanger, the Man Behind Premier Tech
Every Friday, a familiar face from the business world graces our section. This week, we're shining the spotlight on Jean Bélanger, the President and CEO of Premier Tech.
Getting to Know Jean Bélanger
Born and bred in Rivière-du-Loup, Bélanger took the reins of Premier Tech in 1999, having served as General Director since 1990. Back then, the company's annual revenue was a modest $500,000. under his leadership, the company experienced exponential growth, went private, and diversified its business sectors.
Uncovering Ideas: The Natural Way
When struggling to find an idea, Bélanger suggests taking a step back, letting things simmer, and discussing it with colleagues or contacts with expertise in the field. He reminds us to let nature take its course.
Influential Figures in the Business World
Bélanger admires Laurent Beaudoin for his pioneering work at Bombardier, particularly his diversification into new markets and sectors. He also acknowledges Steve Jobs, the brilliant mind behind Apple, NeXT, and Pixar, who revolutionized multiple industries.
Time for Relaxation
To unwind, Bélanger enjoys reading novels, escaping into worlds of thrillers, espionage, and adventure. He cherishes the days when air travel was the only way to disconnect, free from the distractions of technology.
Always-in-Hand Essentials
Bélanger never leaves home without his Kindle – his trusty companion for over a decade. It offers a infinite library, eliminating the need for bookstore visits.
Staying Active: The Cyclist's Life
Cycling is Bélanger's preferred way to stay fit, pedaling five to six times a week, even indoors during the harsh winter months. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and taking care of one's health for increased energy in both personal and professional life.
Nature or Nurture?
Born by the river, Bélanger prefers the scenic landscapes of Rivière-du-Loup over the lofty mountains. The region offers breathtaking access points, perfect for beach escapades and water sports.
A Problem, a Solution: Bélanger's Mantle
Bélanger's guiding principle during his career has been that every problem presents a solution, or, if no solution can be found, it's not truly a problem. He and his team have always approached challenges with the mindset that they will find a way out.
Mentorship: A Circle of Trust
Bélanger does not have a formal mentor but surrounds himself with trusted individuals. These relationships have evolved into friendships, fostering an exchange of ideas and knowledge that inspires him. Even retired individuals serve as valuable sources of wisdom.
Retirement: A Continuous Journey
In his ideal retirement, Bélanger envisions continuing to contribute to Premier Tech's growth and evolution. He sees himself as a connector, guiding others to the right people and resources. However, he's not interested in becoming a sage, dispensing wisdom on a silver platter.
Staying Connected: The Importance of Day-to-Day Operations
Being at the helm of a large company can create a sense of distance from day-to-day operations. Bélanger stresses the need to stay grounded, ensuring that the company's long-term projects are executed meticulously, even as international expansion becomes a reality. This is a lesson he's learned from his parents, who instilled in him the importance of maintaining strong connections with those who keep the machine running.
Did You Know?
Jean Bélanger, 59, is the current President and CEO of Premier Tech - a multinational company specializing in agricultural technologies, headquartered in Rivière-du-Loup, Bas-Saint-Laurent. Premier Tech was founded in New York in 1923, but moved to Quebec a decade later. Its roots can be traced back to sphagnum moss sales, but it has since expanded into various sectors. Its path to success can be linked to the entrepreneurial and operational leadership demonstrated by Réal Bélanger, who led Bel Products Inc., a key player in Canada's electrical enclosures market before its acquisition by ABB. Under Jean Bélanger's leadership or influence, Premier Tech continues operations from its manufacturing and warehouse facilities in Quebec, providing growth opportunities for both local and international markets.
- Jean Bélanger, an entrepreneur in the business community, emphasizes the importance of letting ideas develop naturally, just as he led Premier Tech from a modest $500,000 annual revenue in 1990 to exponential growth and diversification through his leadership.
- In the realm of his admiration, Bélanger recognizes the influences of Laurent Beaudoin, who successfully diversified Bombardier into new markets and sectors, and Steve Jobs, the visionary who revolutionized multiple industries.
