François Dufresne

Francois Dufresne is the first President of FSC Canada to be based in Montreal, Quebec. Mr. Dufresne has been mandated to bring FSC to a higher level of recognition, and to create and foster long-term relationships with FSC’s various stakeholders. His primary mandate is developing and executing an FSC Canada Strategic Plan which focuses on growth for the organization. He is a proven business leader in the industry and the right visionary to build on FSC Canada’s strengths in order to ensure the organization’s continued success.

Mr. Dufresne has 25 years of experience in the private and public sectors representing a proven track record in financing and investments, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the forest industry at both corporate and manufacturing levels. Most recently at SGF (Société générale de financement du Québec), he played a key role in sustainable development initiatives involving extensive forest management expenditures, forest certification and Canada’s First Nations. Accordingly, in his current capacity, he continues to build upon a solid foundation of existing relationships with government officials, forestry industry executives and financial sector players.

Mr. Dufresne joined FSC Canada at a time of great opportunity. He has concentrated on a series of strategic initiatives, such as the Quebec Transfer Team, a revision of the regional FSC Standards for Canada, a National Risk Assessment for Controlled Wood, and building value for FSC certificate holders and members. His mission and vision will ensures that FSC Canada continues to expand its influence and leadership in the forest certification sector, promoting the best conditions and higher standards for a responsible management of Canada’s forests.