L’Oréal Canada has appointed Laurie Bouchard as its chief corporate affairs and engagement officer, adding her to the company’s management committee as it strengthens its corporate affairs leadership.
The appointment took effect Monday, Jan. 12, the company said in a press release. Bouchard joins the Canadian subsidiary of the global beauty company following senior communications roles in federal politics, public affairs and the private sector.
Senior leadership appointment
L’Oréal Canada said Bouchard brings experience in communications, leadership and public policy to the newly announced role, which oversees corporate affairs and engagement activities. The company positioned the appointment as part of its broader approach to managing reputation, government relations and external partnerships in Canada.
Bouchard joins L’Oréal Canada after more than a decade working in senior roles connected to Canadian politics and public affairs, including positions within the federal government and political campaigns.
Background in federal politics and public affairs
Most recently, Bouchard served as deputy director of communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada under then-prime minister Justin Trudeau. She later led the communications team during the campaign of Prime Minister Mark Carney, according to the release.
Earlier in her career, Bouchard held several communications leadership roles within the federal government. These included director of communications for the minister of innovation, science and industry from March 2023 to May 2024, and senior communications manager from December 2021 to March 2023. She was also previously part of the operations team in the Office of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The company said her professional experience also includes roles outside the federal government, including work in the private sector, at the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, at communications agency TACT, and within the Quebec government. The release also noted that she has a legal background.
Company perspective
An Verhulst-Santos, president and chief executive officer of L’Oréal Canada, said the appointment reflects the company’s focus on trust, reputation and external engagement.
“Building trust and protecting our reputation is of utmost importance to L’Oréal Canada and absolutely strategic in bringing our sense of purpose, Creating The Beauty That Moves The World, to life.” said Verhulst-Santos.
She said Bouchard’s background and professional network were key considerations in the appointment.
“What Laurie brings to L’Oréal Canada is truly unparalleled. Her deep network and extensive experience within Canadian political circles provide unrivaled external relations and political acumen, which will be instrumental in navigating government relations, public affairs, and fostering strategic external partnerships, thereby significantly enhancing L’Oréal Canada’s influence and reputation, and solidifying our position as a thought leader in the market.”
Bouchard’s response
Bouchard said she is looking forward to joining the company and contributing to its work in Canada.
“It is a privilege to join L’Oréal Canada, an inspiring organization that is a pioneer in its field and that remains an industry leader thanks to its creativity, values and strong spirit of innovation. I am looking forward to contributing to our ambitious projects and especially amplify our impact in Canada within various networks,” said Bouchard.
About the company
L’Oréal Canada is a subsidiary of L’Oréal Groupe. Established in 1958, the Canadian business includes a head office, manufacturing plant and distribution centre in Montreal, as well as a sales office in Toronto.
The company employs more than 1,700 people in Canada, representing 73 nationalities, according to the release. Its portfolio includes 39 brands sold across multiple distribution channels, including hair salons, department stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, medi-spas and e-commerce platforms.
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