Nobody, it is said, is indispensable in this world. However, we know that there is nothing worse. Whether in our private life or for certain positions, say, more sensitive than others.
Such is the case of Sophie Brochu, President and CEO of Hydro-Québec. The announcement of his departure in April, two years before the end of his mandate, means a great loss for the state-owned company.
With elegance, coupled with a good strategic instinct, Ms Brochu refrained from voicing the slightest disagreement with Pierre Fitzgibbon, Super Minister for Economy, Innovation and Energy.
political transition
By silencing any arguments, Sophie Brochu secured a peaceful exit for herself and the state company. And for his successor, a political transition that is as stable as possible.
The fact remains that the outgoing CEO and Minister Fitzgibbon had different ideas about the biggest challenge facing Hydro-Québec: the energy transition.
On the one hand, the government seems tempted by a new phase in hydropower to bridge the prosperity gap with Ontario that Premier François Legault often talks about.
On the other hand, Ms. Brochu said she refuses to make Quebec a dollarama of energy at a discount for businesses. The difference of opinion was deep.
Unequal Weapons
In addition, the Legault government has just been massively reappointed for a second term. For Sophie Brochu, an experienced manager, the message was crystal clear.
Either way, with a government so strong, popular and accountable to the people, to openly confront them about Hydro-Québec’s orientations would have been, by definition, a losing battle.
In terms of political power and decision-making power, the two protagonists just weren’t on par, despite Ms. Brochu’s proven skills. Hence the Prime Minister’s expression of relief this Wednesday as he appeared to be reacting to the announcement of Sophie Brochu’s departure.
