5 Questions for Denise Dériger

Every month, we bring you a profile of a leading ethics and compliance professional. This month, we would like to introduce you to Denise Dériger, Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, Governance and Ethics, and Corporate Secretary, Énergir.

Denise oversees the governance and enforcement of the code of ethics at Énergir, one of Quebec’s biggest energy providers, involved in developing solar and wind power, renewable and liquefied gas, and hydroelectricity. Denise oversees the governance and enforcement of the code of ethics at Énergir, one of Quebec’s biggest energy providers, involved in developing solar and wind power, renewable and liquefied gas, and hydroelectricity.

Since taking the helm of the ethics program, Denise has undertaken a comprehensive review of Énergir’s governance and practices.

1. What drew you to a leadership position in ethics and compliance?

I see ethics as the bedrock of a company’s culture and an integral part of its operations. An ethical approach has positive impacts on credibility, reputation, image and conduct, to name a few. It goes a long way in enhancing social dialogue and creating value for the business.

Being a key contributor in strengthening an ethical culture by reviewing the governance and the practices of the company I work for is a stimulating challenge.

2. Who or what has inspired you and influenced your career path?

There are so many! I have had the opportunity to cross paths with inspiring individuals throughout my career, but I have to say my parents are the ones who had the biggest impact. My father, who worked as a labourer, always pushed me to believe that I could be anything I wanted to be in life.

He instilled the values of justice, fairness, respect and common sense in me, which helped forge my path and shape the person I am today.

3. What do you think are key considerations in ethics?

Addressing conflicts of interest, evaluating senior management’s ethical thinking when measuring performance, the proper management and protection of client data and the use of artificial intelligence for developing technology related to ethics.

4. What are the issues in ethics and compliance that concern you the most?

The increasingly complex organizational environment we find ourselves in is an ongoing challenge. I aim for three things in this regard: simplicity, efficiency and adaptability.

My goal is to streamline existing policies while maintaining the same level of adherence, and to adapt our code of conduct to stay current with reality.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t be scared, be a trailblazer, believe in your potential, stay true to yourself and to your values, and follow your heart with respect and integrity.

Published by the Ethics and Compliance Community of HEC Montréal
Mars 2022