When the pandemic hit, Bio-K+ International was at the centre of Isabelle Chevalier's life, also known for her role as a dragon at Radio-Canada . Working since 1996 in the biotechnology organization that she built alongside her family, she was at the head of the organization from 2011 until its sale. Having become the mother of three boys over time, she had also seen her husband join the adventure over the past 10 years.

“We were in the process of finding global partners to continue our international deployment,” says the entrepreneur. “As we went along, it became clear to us that the best strategic decision, both for the company and for the family, was to sell so that the company could reach its full potential. We found the ideal partner to do so. We found ourselves faced with an offer where all parties largely found what they were looking for and where the company was optimally positioned. This was the next step in ensuring the growth and global deployment of the brand.”

In November 2020, Bio-K+ International concluded the sale to the Irish group Kerry, which committed to keeping the head office and jobs in Quebec.

Grieving

Refusing this step in the growth of Bio-K+ International would have been to deny its evolution, says Isabèle Chevalier. On the other hand, the entrepreneur willingly speaks of mourning. “A bit like a child who leaves home to fly on his own, there is a certain void after departure,” she illustrates. It is a transition, you have to live it, accept it. We are both happy for him and sad to see him go. It is also the beginning of a new life, a new chapter for you.”

The hardest part for her? Announcing the news to her team… virtually! “I’ve known these people I love dearly for 25 years. We grew up together, we built this company from start-up to its current level. Having to say goodbye to them via videoconference was truly heartbreaking.”

Change always brings a dose of insecurity, the businesswoman acknowledges: "If there is one constant in life, it is change. In the field of innovation, change, growth, acquisitions, that's what keeps you alive. We have experienced this throughout the evolution of the company, which has remained very human despite everything."

New chapter

Following the sale, Isabèle Chevalier took the time to sort through the paperwork and memories. She has just completed the ICD.D certification as a corporate director from the Rotman School of Management to add another string to her bow, although she already sits on various boards of directors. “In order to bring about real change on boards of directors, I want to make sure I am as prepared as possible and up to date with best practices,” explains the woman who also co-founded Ma Zone Québec at the start of the pandemic.

In February and March, she also filmed in the tenth season of Dans l'oeil du dragon . "The year 2021 is one of transition and renewal during which I want to have a little lull to take the time to settle down and see what will happen next," hopes the mother and nature lover. Through my commitments and investments, I want to promote values associated with health and well-being, social and environmental responsibility, and female leadership."