Tense moments on the trading floor
This was by far the most exciting part of the day! I was given a quick summary of the public market trading activities, both on the equity and derivatives side. The trading operations of the institution are fast-paced and these analysts must perform market transactions in a very limited time frame. I even had the privilege of witnessing a real-life arbitrage strategy as the trader walked me through the transaction. I must admit that my heart rate was racing as we were approaching the execution of the deal!
More insights over lunch
Lunch was scheduled at Decca 77 with Anik Lanthier, senior vice-president of Public Equities and Absolute Return, Stephane Jalbert, managing director in Real Estate Investments, and Guthrie Stewart, senior vice-president and global head of Private Investments. I had the opportunity to learn more about their successful careers and certain challenges they faced along the way.
$100-million deals and a leader with impressive poise
The afternoon began with an investment pitch from Hong Kong investors. I was able to meet the chairman and CEO of the fund and attentively analyze the deal proposal. These meetings are key to the success of PSP in developing a well-diversified portfolio. Not to mention, many deals are executed for way over $100 million!
Mr. Bourbonnais has a long-lasting relationship with many of his overseas business partners and observing him in action was impressive, to say the least. Finally, a presentation was conducted at the PSP office by a top Canadian bank. The CEO and other senior executive members were present to exchange business ideas. It was an intimidating, yet humbling feeling to be sitting alongside two distinguished Canadian CEOs.
Looking back on my day, I can truly say that a CEO’s life has multiple dimensions to it. The culture a leader brings to a corporation is key to growth and sustainability. André is a well-rounded individual, one that cares for his people while demanding nothing short of excellence. A true leader by heart, André has demonstrated that the right mix of passion, vision and intelligence can go a long way toward building a successful career.
Read about how Jason Azzoparde earned the Bourse Gilles Joncas in 2014, given to the top co-op student in Quebec by the provincial branch of the Association canadienne de l’enseignement cooperative (ACDEC).