Leaders on Leadership: Jean-René Halde—A Leader With a Cause

Aligned with the Conference Board’s mission to build leadership capacity for a better Canada, the Leaders on Leadership series features insights from exemplary Canadian leaders who are making unique contributions to our society and to their organizations. This issue looks at Jean-René Halde, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Business Development Bank of Canada. Mr. Halde is deeply committed to the cause of building leadership capacity among Canada’s small and medium-sized organizations. In this interview, he notes that SMEs are dynamic creators of jobs and value for the Canadian economy— but he does not mince words about Canada’s poor productivity record or the looming talent shortage. Fundamental changes are needed, warns Mr. Halde, if Canada is to win the fierce global competitive battle.