Luc Thériault, who assumed leadership of Domtar’s Wood Products business unit in August 2024, brings over three decades of experience in the forest products industry to his role.
With a sharp focus on safety, sustainability, and profitability, Thériault’s leadership emphasizes resilience and collaboration—a fitting match for Domtar’s values. Domtar recently profiled Thériault in its newsroom, offering insights into his vision and priorities.
A Clear Vision for the Future
Thériault has outlined key objectives for Domtar’s Wood Products business, all aimed at achieving operational excellence and sustainability:
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Zero Accidents/Incidents: Building on Domtar’s impressive safety advancements, Thériault aspires to eliminate workplace incidents entirely. “Even one incident is too many. We must continue pushing the limits of what is possible,” he says.
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Employer of Choice: By fostering a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace, Thériault aims to attract and retain top talent.
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Forest Stewardship: As stewards of the environment, Domtar’s woodlands management adheres to robust sustainable practices, balancing ecological, social, and economic goals.
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Indigenous Partnerships: Thériault seeks to deepen relationships with Indigenous communities, recognizing the critical cultural, environmental, and economic roles forests play in their lives.
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Profitability: With the lumber market experiencing record-low prices, Thériault’s immediate focus is on navigating financial challenges while positioning the business for long-term recovery.
Tackling Challenges Head-On
The Wood Products unit faces significant hurdles, from supply chain disruptions to fluctuating demand in the U.S. housing market. Addressing these challenges requires:
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Active participation in the Quebec forestry regime review to secure predictable and cost-effective fiber supplies.
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Strategic investments, such as a new kiln at the Cross City, Florida, sawmill and a planer replacement at Atikokan, Ontario.
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Enhancing market positioning through high-value product production and improved customer mixes.
“We need to excel in every area we control,” Thériault explains. “That means operational efficiency, resilience, and making tough decisions to minimize losses.”
Community and Employee Engagement
Under Thériault’s leadership, Domtar launched the “United in Purpose” initiative, a pilot project aimed at fostering employee engagement through community involvement. The program supports employee-led projects, such as addressing food insecurity in Quebec and promoting accessible gardening in Côte-Nord. “These initiatives strengthen team bonds while building leadership and interpersonal skills,” Thériault notes.
A Resilient Future
Thériault’s tenure as president of the Wood Products unit reflects his unwavering commitment to safety, sustainability, and profitability. By aligning the business’s operations with Domtar’s broader mission, he is steering the unit through challenging times while laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable future.
