Maxime Vollant

"Effective Indigenous economic development that achieves the objectives of First Nations in Canada must be supported by a framework and policies based on the realities of Indigenous communities."

Mr. Vollant, the father of three daughters, is from the Innu First Nation of Pessamit. His professional journey began with the creation of the Youth Council of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, under the patronage of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador. Over the years, he has served as the director of a financial institution, director of economic development for his community, and executive director for several First Nations communities in Quebec.

He previously led Indigenous Relations at Rio Tinto–IOC, where he contributed to building long-lasting partnerships and advancing reconciliation through employment, environmental collaboration, and business opportunities.

He now serves as Director of Indigenous Partnerships at Boralex, a renewable energy company. In this role, he continues to pursue his lifelong commitment to fostering respectful and sustainable relationships with Indigenous communities across Canada.

Mr. Vollant has long worked to create opportunities for his people and has served on various boards of directors of Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations to help advance First Nations development at multiple levels. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, as well as an Executive Management and Development Certificate from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.