One is at the helm of Germain Hôtels, the other at Groupe Océan, and while the areas in which these entrepreneurs excel have nothing in common, they each participate in the dynamism of Quebec’s economy in their own unique way. The extraordinary achievements of these two entrepreneurial personalities were honored by theNational Order of Quebec.
At the time of our interview, Christiane Germain, co-founder of hotel company Germain Hôtels, was opening a 19th property, this time in Calgary. For them, this is not a high point, but a further step in the growth of their company. “Building a solid company is what drives me,” she says. The source of my motivation has been building something for 35 years and profitability is an important element. »
Gordon Bain shares this vision with her, he who started the business humble in the 1970’s before making a series of strategic acquisitions at Groupe Océan, a pan-Canadian integrated maritime services company. “What motivated me to work hard was the achievement of new goals and the ambition of my team, which pushed me to surpass myself,” he explains.
JOB CREATOR
This successful woman and businessman now admits she takes pride in creating jobs as she now has years of hindsight to see her accomplishments.
Ms. Germain believes this desire to showcase local talent stems from her parents, who are restaurant owners. “I am very proud to create jobs in a stimulating work environment. In total, almost 1,500 people work for Germain Hôtels and almost 1,100 for Groupe Océan. “I’m happy to offer well-paying jobs,” says Mr. Bain. There are many challenges conducive to professional development. »
THE HIGHEST HONOR OF THE PROVINCE
The National Order of Quebec rewards Quebec excellence in all areas, and the business community is no exception. People like Christiane Germain and Gordon Bain dared to build empires that contributed to the prosperity of Quebec.
Today, Groupe Océan promotes Quebec entrepreneurship and know-how abroad. In fact, the Quebec City company exports its services and expertise from coast to coast, but also to international markets.
In addition to the numerous awards that highlight this company’s culture of excellence, last June Mr. Bain was awarded the prestigious Officer’s Badges of the National Order of Quebec by Prime Minister François Legault.
“I heard that my application had been submitted, but when I found out that it had been selected, I was completely surprised. I received this badge personally, but I know I couldn’t have done it without my team. »
Like Gordon Bain, Christiane Germain founded her family business in Quebec with her brother Jean-Yves Germain. This company would thus become the first Quebec hotel chain in Canada. Many awards have recognized her achievements, including being made a Knight of the National Order of Quebec in 2009.
“I was stunned when I got the call telling me the news as I didn’t know my case was being offered. I remember feeling very, very honored! My impostor syndrome was bigger than it is now, so I doubted I deserved that title! »
Ms. Germain, who shared this recognition with her family and colleagues, hopes her journey will inspire other women to embrace entrepreneurship.
AN ALWAYS ACTIVE FUTURE
As retirement age approaches, Christiane Germain and Gordon Bain seize the opportunity to transform their roles as leaders. For the knight of the order, it is about offering her expertise, but also the necessary scope for the successor. “I would like to continue to participate in the growth of our company, but I have to make sure that I give my successors space. »
The civil servant acts as the CEO of Groupe Océan and is involved in important decisions. He delegated a large part of his daily tasks to his friend and partner Jacques Tanguay. “Every entrepreneur, especially at the beginning, doesn’t count his hours,” he says. I started my family late and it’s time for me to be there for my kids and stepkids. »