Nathalie Hébert

“When I was asked to join Les Audacieuses, I was proud and honored to be considered. It's an opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself.”

Nathalie Hébert: an authentic and transparent Audacieuse

Nathalie Hébert is a determined scientist, as much a woman of heart as of head. With a bachelor's degree in biology from the Université de Montréal, she rose through the ranks, one by one, before assuming her current position as General Manager of Charles River Laboratories in Sherbrooke. Witness to many advances in research during her 24 years of experience, Nathalie agreed to act as honorary president and participant of the Leucan Shaved Head Challenge in 2022. As the mother of an 11-year-old daughter, Nathalie shows her the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise. It's no surprise that she said YES to Leucan's Audacieuses.

Supporting Leucan's cause comes naturally to this generous scientist. “I took part in the Leucan Shaved Head Challenge three years ago. At first, I was simply offered the honorary presidency. It was obvious to me that I had to shave my hair too. It was an automatic thing; I wanted to support this cause entirely.’’

“When I was asked to join Les Audacieuses, I was proud and honored to be considered. It's an opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself.”

Nathalie perfectly embodies the balance between humility and success. Although her life's journey is impressive and inspiring, she admits to doubting herself at times. “I have to admit that when I watched the Audacieuses over the past few years, I had imposter syndrome. I'd say to myself, “Wow, they're CEOs, women of influence; me, I haven't done anything exceptional.” Yes, I manage a Quebec site for a global company, but I couldn't see myself at that level.”

For a woman, shaving her hair is a major decision. “If you put aside the magnificent cause, the purely physical aspect plays a big part in the thought process. I like it when people tell me my hair looks good, but that's a superficial reaction. Personally, I don't want to define myself by my hair. Shaving my hair was the right decision!’’

A determined and approachable manager

Nathalie knows how to show determination and work hard to achieve her goals. Twenty years separate her entry as a technician in September 2000 and her appointment as General Manager of Charles River Laboratories in Sherbrooke at the age of 40.  “I've worked hard to get where I am. I climbed the ladder to get there. When I look at some of the people at work who now occupy my former position, I realize that my passage has left an imprint.”

Sharing experience and knowledge, as well as teamwork, are essential for Nathalie. She's always ready to listen. “Throughout my career, I've passed on my way of doing things, leaving room for other people's approaches. I try to share my experience, to accompany, to advise, and sometimes to guide. Perhaps my career path inspires others, and that's a form of influence.”

Nathalie's approach to management is human and accessible. “My leadership is based on people. I don't think you can lead well without empathy and listening. My goal is to be a fair and accessible leader, who inspires without crushing. What matters to me is that my team is satisfied with my work and that my employees feel good.”

Juggling her professional and personal life

With her partner, she has found the perfect balance between work and family. But being a mother and a managing director is no easy juggling act. Nathalie does it naturally. “I'm like anyone else: I work, I have a child, I manage my daily life like any other woman. I want to stay true to myself and my values. If one day, it's no longer possible to reconcile work and family, and I'm no longer able to follow my values, I'll be able to make the right decisions.”

In every role in her life, Nathalie has followed her instincts and respected her values. “Transparency above all. I hate lies, whether in business or in my personal life. For me, anything can be said, as long as you're respectful. Authenticity is essential. I can't stand power plays. I prefer sincere people, with their qualities and their faults, as long as they assume them.”

To succeed professionally as she has, you sometimes have to make difficult choices between career and family. In the end, the important thing is to be proud of what you've achieved. “I've had to make some heartbreaking decisions, but I've always accepted them. Today, I'm proud of what I’ve achieved. I'm proud of my beautiful 11-year-old daughter. I'm proud of my career path.’’