(Montreal) Former Bell Canada CEO and BCE founder Jean de Grandpré died last weekend at the age of 100.
Posted at 8:10 p.m.
A graduate in civil law from McGill University and after a career as a lawyer, Mr. de Grandpré joined Bell in 1966 as head of legal counsel. He rose through the ranks to become CEO and Chairman of the Board in 1976.
He then played an important role in the creation of BCE (Bell Canada Enterprises) in 1983. He became Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. de Granpré was also Chancellor of McGill University from 1984 to 1991 as well as a director of several companies.
His involvement earned him the appointment of Companion of the Order of Canada as well as Commander of the Order of Montreal.
“I am saddened by the passing of Mr. de Grandpré who was a great role model and inspiration to me and to many of us in the telecommunications industry,” said Mirko Bibic, President and Chief Executive Officer from BCE and Bell. On behalf of the entire Bell team, I offer our most sincere condolences to Mr. de Grandpré’s family, his friends and all those who had the great privilege of knowing him. »
BCE recalled that he led Bell during a period marked by transformations such as the launch of mobile telephone services, the technological beginnings of fiber optics and the rise in the use of personal computers.
Mr. de Grandpré has also been involved in charitable works, notably with the Papillon Foundation, which helps disabled children.
Mr. de Granpré’s biography, “The Legacy of a Giant” by Danielle Stanton and Hervé Anctil, was published in 2019.