Montreal Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Montreal has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, operations, human resources, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Montreal manages city needs and services, focusing on business and economy, citizen welfare, environmental sustainability, and efficient permit processes.

Leadership Roles at Montreal

  • Chief Financial Officer - Richard Lafrance
  • President - Bonnie Destounis
  • Chief of Staff - Glenn Castanheira
  • Director, Architecture Ti & Chief Technology Officer - Alexandra Poulin
  • Chef De Cabinet - Arrondissement Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve - William Gaudry
  • Drh - Lena Smirnoff
  • Drh - Yvon Galarneau
  • Richard Lafrance - Chief Financial Officer

    Richard Lafrance, the Chief Financial Officer at Montreal, manages the city's fiscal health and financial planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Richard Lafrance ensures robust budget management and fiscal responsibility across municipal services. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support economic growth and citizen welfare, while maintaining strict adherence to regulatory requirements. The Chief Financial Officer directs the allocation of resources for essential services, including environmental initiatives and business development programs. By analyzing financial performance and forecasting future needs, Lafrance safeguards the city's financial stability. This leadership position is integral to sustaining Montreal's capacity to deliver vital services and invest in its future development.

    Bonnie Destounis - President

    Bonnie Destounis, the President at Montreal, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the organization. Overseeing key initiatives, Bonnie Destounis guides the city's management of essential services, including economic development and citizen support. This presidential role involves setting the vision for municipal operations and ensuring effective governance across all departments. The President drives the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing urban living and fostering sustainable growth. By collaborating with various stakeholders, Destounis champions initiatives that strengthen Montreal's community fabric and economic resilience. Bonnie Destounis's leadership is fundamental to advancing the city's mission and operational excellence.

    Glenn Castanheira - Chief of Staff

    Glenn Castanheira, the Chief of Staff at Montreal, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across city departments. Overseeing critical projects, Glenn Castanheira ensures the efficient delivery of citizen services and economic development programs. This leadership role involves coordinating interdepartmental efforts to address complex urban challenges and enhance the city's overall functionality. By managing key stakeholder relationships, the Chief of Staff facilitates collaboration between government bodies and community organizations. The focus remains on optimizing resource allocation and driving forward the city's strategic objectives in areas such as business support and environmental stewardship. Glenn Castanheira's oversight extends to policy implementation and ensuring departmental adherence to municipal goals, thereby strengthening Montreal's operational framework.

    Alexandra Poulin - Director, Architecture Ti & Chief Technology Officer

    Alexandra Poulin, the Director, Architecture Ti & Chief Technology Officer at Montreal, architects the city's technological infrastructure and digital transformation strategy. Overseeing the integration of advanced IT solutions, Alexandra Poulin drives innovation in citizen services and operational efficiency. This leadership position is pivotal in modernizing municipal systems, ensuring secure data management, and enhancing digital accessibility for residents and businesses. The Chief Technology Officer directs the development and implementation of technology roadmaps that support environmental services and economic development initiatives. By fostering a culture of technological advancement, Poulin ensures Montreal remains at the forefront of smart city development. Alexandra Poulin's expertise is crucial for optimizing city operations through cutting-edge technology.
    Alexandra Poulin

    William Gaudry - Chef De Cabinet - Arrondissement Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve

    William Gaudry, the Chef De Cabinet - Arrondissement Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve at Montreal, manages administrative operations and strategic execution within the Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough. Overseeing the delivery of localized city services, William Gaudry ensures alignment with broader municipal objectives. This role involves coordinating departmental activities to meet the specific needs of the arrondissement, focusing on citizen engagement and community development. The Chef De Cabinet facilitates communication between borough residents and city administration, driving efficient service provision. Gaudry's leadership supports initiatives related to local economic vitality and environmental improvements within the designated area. William Gaudry's operational oversight is key to the effective functioning of this municipal division.

    Lena Smirnoff - Drh

    Lena Smirnoff, the Drh at Montreal, directs human resources strategy and talent management across the city's diverse workforce. Overseeing recruitment, employee development, and labor relations, Lena Smirnoff ensures a skilled and motivated municipal team. This critical role focuses on fostering a positive work environment and implementing HR policies that support operational excellence in citizen services and economic development. The Drh develops programs to enhance employee engagement and professional growth, aligning human capital with Montreal's strategic objectives. Smirnoff's expertise is vital for managing workforce dynamics and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Lena Smirnoff's leadership strengthens the city's capacity to deliver essential services effectively.

    Yvon Galarneau - Drh

    Yvon Galarneau, the Drh at Montreal, oversees specific aspects of human resource management, focusing on departmental support and employee relations. Directing initiatives related to workforce planning and organizational development, Yvon Galarneau ensures that municipal departments are adequately staffed and equipped. This role involves implementing HR best practices to support the delivery of citizen services, environmental programs, and business support functions. The Drh collaborates with management to address employee needs and foster a productive work environment. Galarneau's efforts contribute to maintaining high standards of performance and compliance within the city's administrative structure. Yvon Galarneau's focus is on optimizing the employee experience and supporting departmental goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Montreal Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Montreal?
    Montreal is led by Richard Lafrance (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Bonnie Destounis (President) and Glenn Castanheira (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Montreal’s executive team?
    The executive team of Montreal includes leaders such as Richard Lafrance (Chief Financial Officer), Bonnie Destounis (President), Glenn Castanheira (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Montreal have?
    Montreal has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Montreal’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Montreal includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Director, Architecture Ti & Chief Technology Officer, Chef De Cabinet - Arrondissement Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve.