Julie Martel – An authentic, dedicated leader

A journey of learning and confidence

After earning a master’s degree in finance from Université Laval, Julie immediately pursued a career in corporate finance.

“I quickly realized that my university education could be put to good use in my day-to-day work. I soon had the opportunity to be involved in mergers and acquisitions projects, and I was immediately fascinated by this field. You have to continually reinvent yourself because each deal is different.”

Throughout her career, Julie has always sought to hone her skills, whether through changing roles or responsibilities or through additional training.

Upon joining iA Financial Group in December 2014, Julie immediately became involved in a number of acquisitions. Her first major achievement was the acquisition of CTL (now iA Auto Finance), a mandate she fulfilled alongside Denis Ricard, then Executive Vice-President, Business Development. Following this deal, iA directed her towards a position on the Mergers and Acquisitions team, much to the newcomer’s delight. It was indeed a strong vote of confidence on the part of senior management.

Julie is very grateful to be able to grow surrounded by her team and close collaborators, and to be able to rely on the continued trust of senior management. The success of a deal rests on the contribution of many professionals, and everyone eagerly responds when she presents a potential deal.

In fact, the responsibilities of Julie’s team have increased over the past few years. In addition to mergers and acquisitions, it is now responsible for the Global Integration Office (GIMO), and the strategic investments portfolio. The Corporate Development team, appreciated and sought after for its extensive expertise in mergers and acquisitions, now has all the resources needed to expand our horizons in the financial world.

Authenticity takes centre stage

In a career where striking a balance between rationality and emotion is key, Julie has chosen to move forward with authenticity and to be honest, transparent and consistent in her words and interactions. In mergers and acquisitions, beyond the numbers and dollar signs, it’s crucial to engage with people and recognize each person’s goals and challenges with flexibility, creativity and respect.

“You have to be able to adapt to different contexts, especially when dealing with entrepreneurs, and aim for deals that benefit all parties. Being both authentic and strategic is not necessarily contradictory. On the contrary, when combined, these two strengths have a multiplier effect.”

A passion that drives commitment

Despite her growing responsibilities over the years, Julie is proud to have always managed to maintain a good work-life balance Her career is a veritable passion, and this passion further motivates her to engage with her community.

“That is the example I wanted to set for my children: Find a career that excites you and use the energy it gives you to get involved and give back to others.”

Her children have accompanied her to numerous charitable events to witness their positive impact firsthand.

For example, after more than 10 years of participating in fundraising campaigns for breast cancer research and treatment, Julie joined the organizing committee of the CIBC Run for the Cure in Quebec City in 2019, providing financial support for this cause close to her heart. However, this commitment came with one cheerful condition: that her daughter accompany her and share the responsibilities with her! Since last year, the wonderfully complementary duo has been co-directors of the organizing committee.

Since 2022, Julie has also been serving on the board of directors of the Fondation Michel-Sarrazin, which supports notably a hospice for terminally ill cancer patients.

“The two organizations I work with are similar, but their missions and my roles are different. In both contexts, however, you realize that many people around us are affected, directly or indirectly: the patients, but also their families and loved ones. When you realize that your involvement has a tangible impact on the lives of so many people, it’s incredibly motivating. You feel that, together, we can truly make a difference.”

Julie particularly appreciates the support of iA Financial Group and her colleagues when she is invited to take part in events that support the causes she cares about.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, Julie says that she is as passionate as ever about the challenges and opportunities for growth that this career provides on a daily basis.

“I identify with the values of our company. Of course, the profession evolves and each deal brings its share of unknowns, but iA encourages us to constantly reinvent ourselves. Through our achievements, we cultivate numerous opportunities to be proud of ourselves as a team and as an organization.”