Isabelle Blais has been appointed Concordia's next associate vice-president, Human Resources. She will begin a five-year term on March 30, 2026.
Blais is currently vice-president of legal affairs, human resources and secretary-general at the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ), the organization that governs and oversees the construction industry in Quebec, where she has worked since 2020. Prior to joining the CCQ, Blais held senior positions at Vidéotron and Québecor Média for almost 15 years, including as director general of human resources.
"I'm pleased to welcome Isabelle to Concordia," says Michael Di Grappa, vice-president, Services and Sustainability. "As the university navigates a period of considerable change, including unprecedented budgetary pressures and an evolving workforce, HR must reimagine how it can best continue to contribute to Concordia's success by creating the structures, capabilities and culture needed to support a sustainable, healthy and high-performing work environment. I am convinced Isabelle can lead this renewal and make HR a strategic partner for all sectors of the university.
"In addition to her many successes in labour relations and collective agreement negotiations at large and complex organizations, Isabelle has an outstanding track record leading transformational projects in human resources, including strategic reorganization and operational systems implementation. She will be a true asset to the university."
As AVP, Blais will oversee all HR functions, from talent acquisition, compensation and benefits to employee relations, labour negotiations and organizational development, while continuing to champion wellbeing programs as well as supporting equity, diversity and inclusion.
"I was attracted to Concordia by its unique identity and strong values, which contribute to placing it among top employers year after year, and I'm delighted to join its community," Blais says. "I look forward to working with the different sectors of the university so that we can continue building together on its existing strengths while tackling our challenges through effective change and innovation."
A lawyer by training, Blais holds Civil Law and Common Law degrees from McGill University.
Blais replaces Carolina Willsher, who announced last fall she would be retiring from Concordia in 2026 after 17 years at the university. Willsher will stay on as a special advisor in the short term.
