Bio

Francis completed an Executive MBA program at the University of Ottawa in 2008 and successfully completed a certification as Certified Internal Auditor designation and a Control Self-Assessment in 2002. Francis obtained in 1985 a Bachelor of Architecture from Laval University.  During his studies, he was also selected to take part in a foreign study program at Westminster University in London, England. Francis is member of the Ontario Association of Architects and the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.

Since 2005, Francis has been providing consulting services to senior management of organizations such as Health Canada, the University of Ottawa, Bell Canada, Agriculture Canada, Natural Resource Canada and Environment Canada and Public Works and Government Services Canada. The scope of these mandates range from Risk Assessment, Project Management, Process Mapping, Internal Control and Quality Assurance Review pertinent to large IT initiatives involving HR, Payroll, Procurement and Financial activities.

In 2001, Francis entered in a specialized developmental program at Canada Post Corporation. His first year assignment was with the Internal Audit department of the Corporation. Following that he was exposed to other areas of the Corporation related to Operations in order to broaden his knowledge of the Corporation and to bring forth his expertise in process management.

In 1991, Francis left the private sector to join Public Works and Government Services Canada. His first year was spent as project manager. Francis was then mandated to establish a new service called the Digital Simulation Laboratory (DSL).  During his 10 years as head of DSL, Francis developed innovative applications for the use of digital simulation that has been the subject of many publications in various media. DSL has completed several project mandates in Canada as well as abroad.

From 1983 to 1990, as architect, Francis developed an expertise in computerization technology as applied to the field of architecture during his seven years of architectural practice in three different firms in Quebec City. In 1989, Francis’ status as a pioneer in this field led to an Apple’s advertising campaign.

In 2001, Francis received the Deputy Minister’s Commendation Award in recognition of his exemplary service to Public Works and Government Services Canada.