Olivier Set to Guide Transcontinental

MONTREAL—Francois Olivier, the son-in-law of Transcontinental founder Remi Marcoux, will be taking command of the Canadian printing giant in 2008. Transcontinental’s board of directors unanimously appointed Olivier as its next president and CEO, effective February 20, 2008.

Olivier replaces Luc Desjardins, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities. Under Desjardins, Transcontinental grew from a market capitalization of C$653 million to C$1.8 billion.

“We have the right teams in place at the head office and in our three operating sectors,” Desjardins said. “We have a proven decision-making structure and processes. . .I am leaving the company in good hands and in an excellent position for the future.”

Olivier, 42, has been with Transcontinental since 1993 and has served in various management roles. He helped secure a 15-year outsourcing pact worth more than $1 billion (U.S.) to print the San Francisco Chronicle and its related products.