Montréal, September 8, 2026 – The Corporation des concessionnaires d’automobiles de Montréal (CCAM) and the Association des employeurs de l’industrie de l’automobile (AEIA) honoured Mr. François Verdy, a respected figure in Québec’s automotive industry, during the CCAM’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on September 3.
An Exceptional Career Serving the Automotive Industry
A member of the AEIA since 1977 and President of the Association since 1992, Mr. Verdy has dedicated nearly five decades to serving Montréal’s automotive industry. His career has been marked by a longstanding commitment to employer representation, labour relations and the development of the Greater Montréal automotive industry.
Owner and President of Relais Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, a dealership that has been established in Montréal for more than 50 years, François Verdy remains active in his business and with several industry organizations, drawing on his extensive expertise and in-depth knowledge of the sector.
A Significant Contribution to AEIA
Over the past several decades, he has played a leading role within the AEIA, including throughout numerous rounds of collective bargaining that have shaped labour relations in Montréal’s automotive industry. His sound judgment, ability to listen, knowledge of the industry and pragmatic approach have made him a respected authority among his peers.
During the tribute, Jacques Olivier, who was then Chair of the CCAM Board of Directors, highlighted Mr. Verdy’s remarkable contribution:
“After nearly 50 years of involvement with AEIA, including more than three decades as its President, François has become a true institutional memory of the Association. His knowledge of the industry, sound judgment, wisdom and consistency have made him a respected reference within our industry. On behalf of the CCAM, I would like to sincerely thank him and congratulate him on this remarkable commitment.”
Richard Auclair, Executive Vice-President of AEIA, who has worked closely with Mr. Verdy for more than 35 years, also paid tribute to him:
“For the past 35 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside François. Throughout the many negotiations and challenges our industry has faced, he has always been present, available and committed. His wisdom, sound judgment and support remain invaluable to me, our Board of Directors and the entire AEIA. I would like to sincerely thank him for his trust and for all these years of collaboration and partnership.”
A Commitment That Extends Beyond the Association
Beyond his responsibilities within AEIA, François Verdy has also distinguished himself through his longstanding involvement with the CCAM, actively contributing to the representation and defence of the interests of automotive dealers in Greater Montréal.
His commitment also extends to the CCAM Foundation and various community and philanthropic causes, including his support for the Fleury Hospital Foundation.
Through his leadership, loyalty and exemplary dedication, François Verdy has left a lasting mark on AEIA, the CCAM and Montréal’s automotive industry as a whole. His remarkable career stands as a testament to his longstanding commitment to dealers, employers and the community, and serves as an example for current and future generations of automotive professionals.