Bernard Lamarre

Bernard Lamarre was a prominent Canadian engineer and business leader who served as the long-time president and chief executive of the global engineering firm Lavalin. Under his leadership, the Montreal-based company grew into an international powerhouse, executing major infrastructure projects worldwide. He was also a dedicated philanthropist, contributing significantly to educational, cultural, and scientific institutions in Quebec.

Early life and education

Born in Montreal in 1931, Bernard Lamarre was raised in a family with a strong academic tradition. He pursued his higher education at the prestigious École Polytechnique de Montréal, where he earned a degree in civil engineering. His formative years were influenced by the post-war industrial expansion in Quebec and the growing importance of large-scale technical projects. Following his graduation, he gained initial professional experience that would prepare him for his future role at one of Canada's most significant engineering corporations.

Career at Lavalin

Bernard Lamarre joined the firm Lavalin in 1962, a pivotal time in the company's development. He ascended through the ranks, becoming its president in 1972 and later chairman of the board. During his tenure, he oversaw the company's dramatic expansion from a primarily Quebec-focused consultancy to a multinational giant. Landmark projects under his watch included the James Bay Project, the Montreal Metro, and significant international work such as the Great Man-Made River in Libya. His strategic vision was instrumental in navigating the firm through the complex 1970s energy crisis and subsequent economic cycles.

Engineering and business leadership

As a leader, Bernard Lamarre was known for his innovative approach to project management and financing, particularly through the build–operate–transfer model. He championed the role of the engineer-entrepreneur, advocating for private sector involvement in public infrastructure. His leadership extended beyond Lavalin; he served as president of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Canada and was an influential voice within the World Federation of Engineering Organizations. He also held directorships with major corporations like the National Bank of Canada and Power Corporation of Canada, bridging the engineering and financial sectors.

Philanthropy and community involvement

Bernard Lamarre was deeply committed to giving back to his community, with a philanthropic focus on education and the arts. He served as chancellor of the University of Montreal and was a major benefactor to the École Polytechnique de Montréal, supporting scholarships and facilities. His contributions to the cultural sector included significant support for the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal. He also actively participated in initiatives by the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society and supported various health and social service organizations across Quebec.

Awards and recognition

For his exceptional contributions to engineering and society, Bernard Lamarre received numerous high honors. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada and a Grand Officer of the National Order of Quebec. The engineering community awarded him the Canadian Engineers' Gold Medal from Engineers Canada. He was also inducted as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering and received honorary doctorates from several institutions, including the University of Sherbrooke and the University of Quebec.

Personal life and legacy

Bernard Lamarre was married and had children, maintaining a life that balanced his demanding career with family commitments. He passed away in Montreal in 2020. His legacy endures through the global footprint of the projects he oversaw, the strengthened institutions he supported philanthropically, and his model of principled business leadership. He is remembered as a key figure in the modernization of Quebec's infrastructure and a passionate advocate for the engineering profession's role in societal development. Category:Canadian engineers Category:Canadian businesspeople Category:Order of Canada officers