President, Axe conseils – Expert in Strategy and ESG–CSR Governance

LL.B., MBA, ASC, CHRP, C. Dir., Executive PhD

Ms. Joanne Desjardins is a lawyer who holds an MBA from HEC Montréal. With over 25 years of experience, she is recognized for her expertise in corporate governance, strategy, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) factors.

She is currently pursuing a PhD in CSR and corporate governance at Université Paris-Dauphine PSL, where her research focused on corporate activism. Additionally, she has completed two advanced certificates in ESG practices from UC Berkeley School of Law, specializing in board governance and sustainable capitalism.

Throughout her career, Ms. Desjardins has worked with leading organizations such as Norton Rose, CN, Bombardier, PwC, and KPMG. In parallel with her professional practice, she has taught at the Directors College of Université Laval for several years, where she actively contributes to training governance leaders.

As the President of Axe Conseils, she passionately supports her clients in their strategic thinking, governance practices, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Deeply committed to her community, she has served on several boards of directors and governance committees.

Recently, she co-authored an article in Harvard Business Review France discussing companies' increasing involvement in political and social issues.