BIOGRAPHY

As Executive Director of 48e Nord International, Valérie Lemay combines business development, marketing communications, and social and regional development to drive the growth and international visibility of companies. With over twenty years of experience, she has mastered the art of value positioning and expansion strategies.

Trained as a sociologist, she understands the importance of approaches adapted to the realities and cultures of different territories, while mobilizing and leading strategic partnerships. Her knowledge of political environments and development issues in Abitibi-Témiscamingue is supported by active involvement in regional committees and organizations, contributing to the structuring of alliances and to informing public and economic decision-making.

Finally, on weekends, she sets aside her role as an executive to express her passion for the visual arts as a painter.

BIOGRAPHY

Raphaël Piché has held the position of Commercialization and Export Advisor at 48e Nord International since 2024. Active in business advisory services and regional economic development since 2021, he supports companies from Abitibi-Témiscamingue and across Québec in their growth and market development projects.

With expertise in innovation and commercialization strategies, Raphaël supports businesses from ideation through to market launch by offering structured and tailored solutions. Known for his discipline, reliability, and calm temperament, he stands out for his methodical approach, which inspires confidence and supports project success. Ambitious and committed, he dedicates his energy to regional economic development.

Behind his composed demeanor, Raphaël has a strong sense of humour and enjoys building authentic connections. Passionate about role-playing games, he regularly hosts game nights, demonstrating both his creativity and his ability to bring people together.

BIOGRAPHY

As a Commercialization and Communications Advisor at 48e Nord International, Jonathan Davies supports companies in their commercialization and export initiatives and contributes to the visibility of the organization and its projects, in collaboration with regional and international partners.

He has over twenty-five years of experience as a producer and content director, having led creative projects for international brands and agencies such as Ferrari, Mercedes, and UPS. Founder of a performance-driven marketing company, Jonathan has supported brands in their development across multiple global markets, gaining distinctive expertise in generating maximum impact for both emerging businesses and established companies.

His entrepreneurial background has given him an in-depth understanding of the ambitions, challenges, passion, and hard work of business owners, supporting strong alignment with the core values and specific needs of SMEs. He combines strategy, storytelling, and creative execution to help companies identify their distinctive value proposition and deploy it effectively in markets beyond their region, while delivering engaging, impactful, and tailored content.

Born and raised in Montréal to British parents, Jonathan has lived on both sides of the Atlantic. He strongly believes in the value of intercultural harmony and proudly identifies as Canadian-British.

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys exploring the Abitibi-Témiscamingue countryside with his family, whether on foot, by bicycle, or by snowmobile.

BIOGRAPHY

As a Marketing and Export Advisor at 48e Nord International, Marc-André Dulude supports businesses in their market development efforts. With over 18 years of experience in strategic communications and digital marketing, he has guided companies across a wide range of sectors — finance, retail, agritourism, professional services, and industrial — in defining their positioning, deploying 360 strategies, and optimizing their digital presence. His agency background allowed him to develop a rigorous approach that combines business analysis, brand building, and results-driven tactical execution. He now puts this expertise to work for SMEs looking to expand into new markets.

Marc-André is a natural communicator and simplifier. He asks the right questions to understand his clients' business context and identify solutions that are both relevant and realistic for each organization. For him, clear communication and effective knowledge-sharing to ensure proper alignment are key pillars of his approach.

He is a lover of nature and wide-open spaces. Hiking and cycling are his favorite physical activities. He has also developed a taste for music and film, takes a keen interest in technological developments, and keeps a close eye on local and international news.