Awarding the SLA to an individual reflects the new route SODES took for the award’s 2013 edition. For more than 20 years, the St. Lawrence Award has acknowledged outstanding achievements linked to the St. Lawrence’s economic development. Be it to highlight the acquisition of new ships, major investments designed to expand port terminals or sustainable development initiatives promoting shortsea shipping, many marine-sector companies have received this distinction over the years.
Marie-France Daoust is Director of Corporate Affairs at the Société de développement économique du Saint-Laurent (Sodes). With more than 15 years’ experience in entrepreneurship, 10 years in strategic management within the Quebec government and 5 years in public and government affairs, she stands out for her leadership and ability to bring people together. In her role, she is responsible for developing business growth strategy, forging strategic partnerships, and mobilizing maritime organizations around today’s major issues.