ROGER PLAMONDON A LOOK BACK AT A BUSY, FULFILLING CAREER SPECIAL FEATURE SOUVENIR EDITION VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 2 Également disponible en français PP 41614528
Thank You Roger!
We have been so lucky to have you as part of the Broccolini family since 2007. Your leadership, experience, and incredible network have been instrumental in our growth. We could not have done it without you and are forever grateful.
Most significant has been the impact you have had on our people. As a mentor, manager, and leader, you always invested in and put our people first. You have laid the foundation for the next generation of leaders at Broccolini, who will continue your legacy.
The entire Broccolini team wishes you the best in your well-deserved retirement. As you ride one of your many Harleys around the city, take the time to look up and appreciate all the impressive projects you have been a pivotal part of, changing the Montreal skyline forever.
Jacques Boisvert Publisher
jacques.boisvert@jbcmedia.ca
LONG LIVE THE WRITTEN WORD
I like to publish interviews with industry leaders as they retire, so as to leave behind a legacy of their careers and accomplishments. A cliché, I know, but the old adage – words spoken fly away, words written remain – still rings true.
The idea of highlighting the career of Roger Plamondon first germinated in the mind of Jean Langlois, who worked closely with him for several years at Broccolini. One thing led to another, the project evolved and generated so much interest that we finally decided to include an interview with him as a feature in the regular issue, in addition to devoting a special issue to the man and his career in a magazine sponsored by advertisers. There was so much to say and to illustrate! I was very pleased with the project and personally coordinated it with Roger Plamondon, an experience that was brief but fascinating!
Roger was once featured on the cover page of Commercial Real Estate magazine bearing the title "Real Estate Rock Star". He appeared in our pages several other times as an active member of the board of directors, then as Chairman of the Board of the Institute for Real Estate Development, or as president of the Broccolini Group. A few years ago he also participated in the recording of a Web program co-produced by JBC Media and the Ivanhoe Cambridge Chair in Real Estate at ESG UQAM, a show hosted by Andrée De Serres. Although not a close acquaintance, like many others in the industry I knew who he was. But this close collaboration with him quickly allowed me to truly appreciate the man and the exceptional leader that he is.
I can only join the many people in these pages who expressed their gratitude, respect and admiration for him. To paraphrase our journalist Nathalie Vallerand, I believe that his retirement will most likely prove to be far from tranquil!
Enjoy your reading!
Jacques Boisvert Publisher
SPECIAL FEATURE
SOUVENIR EDITION
VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 2
PUBLISHER
Jacques Boisvert
EDITORIALS
Nathalie Vallerand
Content quality and assistant editor: Céleste Carpentier
TESTIMONIALS
Louis Aucoin, John Broccolini, Francis Charron, Andrée De Serres, Jean-Marc Fournier, Denis Paquin, Valérie Plante, Sam Tsoumas, Laurence Vincent and Natalie Voland
TRANSLATION, REVISION AND PROOF-READING
Neil Kroetsch
PRODUCTION
Supervision:
Edith Lajoie
Graphic design, layout and verification of advertisements:
Carole Bordeleau from Carbodesign
PHOTOGRAPHS
Denis Bernier, Laëtitia Boudaud and Éric Carrière
COVER PAGE PHOTO © JBC Média by Éric Carrière
PHOTOS D’ARCHIVES ET AUTRES
© See corresponding credits
ADVERTISING
Marie Girard
Advertising project manager
Montréal Québec 450 670-7770 418 317-0669
ADMINISTRATION
Edith Lajoie
Executive Director
ACCOUNTING
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4 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 5
"At the time, the dropout rate in St. Henri was high. I could have dropped out myself, but I kept going."
– Roger Plamondon
Roger the High School Graduate
The announcement of Roger's retirement will no doubt elicit a reaction identical to mine from those who frequently rub shoulders with him. The man knows his business. He is intelligent, reasonable and diplomatic. You always learn something from him. But what I remember most of all is the happiness, the joy of living, the empathy and the generosity that define his character.
Roger assisted me in my duties as CEO of the IDU (Institute for Urban Development), initially as vice-president and then as president for the past two years. Each of our meetings was pleasant, amusing and enriching. We pursued the same goals, had the same targets, and both of us prefer a clear, frank approach that is also respectful.
Government authorities recognize him as someone who is trustworthy, a man guided by the general interest. It is undoubtedly that ability to rise above the everyday that explains his dedication to the next generation, whom he constantly encouraged to pursue a career in real estate.
I write in the past tense, since he is leaving the profession. I could also write in the present tense, because Roger will remain for a long time to come the friend we want to keep.
See you soon, Roger.
Jean-Marc Fournier CEO of the IDU
6 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
"See you soon, Roger."
Testimonial
Montréal is fortunate to have dynamic neighbourhoods, each with its own unique personality. Over the years Roger Plamondon, as president of the Broccolini real estate group and also as chair of the board of the IDU, has contributed to the rejuvenation of the boroughs and, more broadly, to the overall vitality of the city.
As a well-deserved retirement approaches after more than 40 years of activity, I wanted to salute the work of this dedicated manager and motivator who has influenced the development of Montréal and played an active role in shaping its future, particularly through his contributions to the city's Facilitating Unit and the Affordable Montréal Coalition.
Roger Plamondon has had a major impact on the local real estate ecosystem. His ability to bring together and motivate the various parties, to find ways forward and to actively promote development in Montréal must be highlighted. It is embodied in the spirit of partnership that is now very apparent in the city's real estate sector.
A new road now lies ahead of you Roger, and I wish you much happiness as you discover its twists and turns on your motorcycles, with your wife by your side!
Thanks for everything, and enjoy your retirement!
Valérie Plante Mayor of Montréal
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 7
"Enjoy your retirement, Roger !"
Testimonial
VILLE DE MONTRÉAL - SYLVAIN LÉGARÉ
FAREWELL, ROGER PLAMONDON
A LOOK BACK AT A BUSY, FULFILLING CAREER
COMMENTS COLLECTED BY NATHALIE VALLERAND
Roger Plamondon is one of the best known figures in the real estate ecosystem. On the occasion of his retirement in June, the president of Broccolini Real Estate Group looks back on his career and shares the lessons he has learned over the years. With a few anecdotes to boot!
JBC MÉDIA BY
ÉRIC CARRIÈRE
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL 9
ROGER PLAMONDON AND HIS WIFE, RITA ROBITAILLE
Looking back in the rear view mirror, Roger Plamondon sees only good things. "I've had an exciting career." Several times during the interview he emphasized that he has been blessed in life, both professionally and personally. On the eve of his retirement, he says he is grateful for 50 good years in the real estate industry. "On top of that, I'm fortunate to finish my career with Broccolini, an exceptional company with solid values," he said.
Yet there was nothing in his background to indicate that he was destined for a career in real estate, particularly given that he studied political science in college. It was his first job, however. that sealed his fate. "My grandfather, my godfather and other members of my family
worked at Canadian National Railway, so it was natural for me to apply there. I had a choice of two jobs. I chose the one that paid the most, that of junior property tax clerk."
Better pay, but not very exciting. Young Roger's tasks consisted of filing, distributing mail and... serving coffee to his colleagues. Nevertheless he persevered, and in 1973 became a property tax clerk. "I found it interesting. I wanted to understand everything. Why is one lot worth more than another? Why is one developed and not the other? I was constantly asking questions. I really got the bug." So much so that he decided to pursue a Bachelor's degree in business administration, with a focus on real estate, at the University of Québec at Montréal.
Thank you
Roger Plamondon, for your passion, dedication and contribution to the Quebec real estate industry.
A DETERMINED MAN
Roger Plamondon began an intense period in his life, attending university every night of the week while working at CN full time during the day. He also married in 1974 and became a father in 1978. After completing his degree, he went on to complete an MBA in finance at HEC Montréal, on a schedule of almost exclusively evening classes. Weekends were devoted to school work, a rhythm that he maintained for 11 years!
How did he manage it? "I'm a very determined person. I set myself the goal of finishing my studies at age 30 and that's what I did. But I want to say that without the support of my wife Rita Robitaille, I could never have done it. Even though she was working full time, she was more present than I was for our daughter Brigitte. I owe her a lot."
In addition to possessing extraordinary energy, Roger Plamondon has a memory like an elephant, which helped him in his studies. He didn't need to spend hours revising his notes to prepare for exams. He remembered everything, down to the smallest detail, and still does today. The following anecdote illustrates just how good his memory is.
"After my MBA I continued to work for CN for a year, and in 1986 I was hired by Steinberg Supermarkets as a property manager," he said. "One day while on vacation with my family on a beach in the U.S., I got a message from my boss on my pager. He was looking for information about a contract. I obviously didn't have the documents with me, but I was able to cite from memory the page number and the paragraph containing the information he was looking for."
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 11
HQ OF CANADIAN NATIONAL RAILWAY WHERE ROGER BEGAN HIS CAREER
HEC MONTRÉAL
ARCHIVES OF THE CITY
CANADIEN NATIONAL
OF MONTRÉAL
STEINBERG UNIVERSITY
He retains fond memories of his four years with Steinberg. At the time, the American head office of Price Club (now known as Costco) had engaged the Steinberg supermarket chain to select the locations of its first stores in Québec and to negotiate the necessary agreements, a responsibility that was handed to Roger.
"That gave me a lot of real estate experience. Steinberg was very thorough and precise. It was important to make sure you understood all the clauses in the contracts perfectly. The company was also forward-thinking. For example, it was the first supermarket chain to have a pharmacy in its stores."
Visionary,
McMillan is delighted to celebrate Roger Plamondon's highly-accomplished commercial real estate career. His vision, expertise and leadership have brought many real estate projects to life that helped shape Montréal's urban landscape, many of which we had the opportunity to collaborate on.
McMillan LLP I Vancouver I Calgary I Toronto I Ottawa I Montréal I Hong Kong I mcmillan.ca
BANQ
Pioneer and Audacious: Roger Plamondon
Congratulations Roger for an exceptional career that shaped the real estate landscape. From traditional real estate to new market trends, McCarthy Tétrault gets results matching your ambitions.
Be ready for the evolution of real estate in the country with our national multidisciplinary team.
mccarthy.ca I McCarthy Tétrault LLP
What did he learn that still serves him today?
"I developed the reflex to ask myself what would happen if the terms of a contract were not respected. People often don't ask themselves that question. Instead, they look at the positive aspects of the agreement, what it will bring them. But a businessto-business contract is like a marriage contract. You only use it when things go wrong. And at that point, you can't renegotiate." Roger was later promoted to General Manager of Real Estate.
He believes that thinking through the consequences of potential problems can help identify blind spots and lead to a better agreement. However, "a good agreement is one that benefits both parties."
During his time at Steinberg, Roger Plamondon spent his evenings teaching adult education classes in financial math and property assessment in several CEGEPs in the Greater Montréal area. It was an experience that served him well throughout his career. "I thought I knew every conceivable way to approach a problem, but as I interacted with students I realized there were many more," recalled the man who is often invited to participate in real estate panels. "Teaching helped me improve my communication skills by explaining things so that people understand."
Thank you to a true game-changer
GI Quo Vadis would like to thank Roger Plamondon for his outstanding leadership and countless contributions to building the Montreal we know today.
Best wishes for a happy retirement!
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 15
LA PRESSE ARCHIVES - BANQ
16 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
“ Roger, congratulations on your accomplishments. You have advanced the cause of real estate on every level. ”
avisonyoung.ca
– Jean Laurin, president
JBC MÉDIA BY DENIS BERNIER
ACTION / REACTION
Roger then left real estate for a year to turn around a women's clothing company that was on the verge of bankruptcy. "I had an MBA in finance, so I wanted to take on that challenge." He confided that he negotiated to have one garment from each of the company's collections for his wife. "She never wore the same dress twice that year!"
But daily life in the fashion industry was far from the glamour of the runway. Every day he would negotiate hard with suppliers, while the bank hounded him, asking about incoming and outgoing funds. "The lesson I learned from my time with that company was that every action triggers a reaction, an effect on the bottom line," he said. "You have to keep your eye on the bottom line, even if you're in expansion mode. It's important to question the need for every expenditure, because the goal of a business should not be to reach a certain sales volume, but rather to be profitable."
After successfully putting the company back on the path to profitability, he decided to return to his first love. In 1991 he was hired as real estate director in a company that was about to launch a new warehouse store concept, Réno Dépôt, modelled on the American giant Home Depot. With the economy in recession, it meant he had to take a significant pay cut.
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 17 A Real Estate Genius, A Business Partner, A Friend. Thank You Roger! groupelaganiere.com UNLOCKING PROPERTY VALUE
Our city is richer for your efforts. Your boldness and leadership are an inspiring legacy for members of the industry and future generations.
The Fonds immobilier team wishes you a retirement filled with many more exciting and bold projects.
But false modesty is not his style. He informed his employer that he intended to renegotiate his salary in three months. "I told him that by that time he would appreciate my value and would raise my pay. And three months later, I got the salary I wanted. That may sound arrogant, but I was always confident about my abilities."
The future proved him right. Responsible for real estate and construction at Réno Dépôt, he fulfilled his commitments. The first six branches of the chain were built under his leadership. "It was an exciting time. The economy was in recession and just about every homeowner wanted a Réno Dépôt in their neighbourhood. I remember the day the first store opened in Brossard. There was a line of cars all the way to the Champlain Bridge, and we had the TV and radio host Normand Brathwaite as our spokesperson!"
18 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
Dear Roger, Builder, mobilizer and a true collaborator.
RÉNO-DÉPÔT ARCHIVES
CBRE is proud to have had the chance to collaborate with Roger Plamondon and the whole Broccolini Team.
Roger, we wish you a very fulfilling retirement.
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 19
RÉNO-DÉPÔT ARCHIVES
He went on to become president and co-owner of a small real estate brokerage firm. It was his first entrepreneurial experience. "I was asked by a Canadian firm, Northwest Atlantic, to open a Québec office. They were leading the expansion of Costco and Future Shop in Canada, partnering in different markets to get a local perspective."
The neophyte entrepreneur found himself on familiar ground, having coordinated the opening of the first Costco stores in Québec back when working at Steinberg. He did it again. From 1994 to 1996 he organized the establishment of six Costco and eight Future Shop outlets.
Nonetheless, he disliked his position as an intermediary. "When you represent a company
the decisions are not yours, so it felt like I was always caught in the middle. I would prepare a full dossier, but I couldn't promise anything. It didn't fit my personality, so I ended the adventure."
AN EXCEPTIONAL BOSS
However, that short stint in brokerage allowed him to meet Louise Wendling, then Senior Vice President for Eastern Canada at Costco, with whom he developed a strong rapport. She offered him the position of Assistant VicePresident, Real Estate, Construction and Legal Affairs at Costco's head office in Laval.
"It was a bit strange to attach legal affairs to that position, but Louise told me she didn't need a
20 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
Cadillac Fairview congratulates Roger Plamondon on his esteemed career in the Canadian commercial real estate industry. As an industry leader who shares our vision and values, Roger has been transformational in developing and shaping Quebec’s urban fabric for future generations.
ROGER PLAMONDON
lawyer, rather someone with business acumen who understood contracts," said Roger Plamondon, who is also responsible for legal affairs in his current position at Broccolini. "When you think about it, it makes sense, given the importance of contracts in real estate projects."
Louise Wendling was the most important influence in his entire career. "Had I but one-tenth of her management skills, I would have been very happy," was his modest assessment. "She was both demanding and approachable. She helped team members to grow and develop. She encouraged them to question her decisions, but only if they clearly explained their reasons for doing so. She also encouraged initiative. Louise said we shouldn't be afraid to make mistakes, because in our field that was not life-threatening. She believed that a leader can set the bar high as long as the team agrees with the targets. I learned a lot from her."
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BROCCOLINI
COSTCO DISTRIBUTION CENTRE
Louise Wendling and Roger Plamondon's paths diverged when Costco closed its Laval office. The manager recommended Roger to Home Depot, where he was offered the position of Regional Manager for Eastern Canada. He was later promoted to Regional Vice President for the same region.
As he had done previously for other banners, Roger Plamondon made a big contribution to the expansion of Home Depot across the country. From 2002 to 2006 he opened some 50 stores in Ontario, Québec and the Atlantic provinces. He was also responsible for store operations, which was a new experience for him.
"I felt like a fish out of water. I didn't know anything about store management. I had to trust my teams." He was inspired by Louise Wendling's example, however, and determined to set realistic, achievable objectives. "When I arrived, people felt a little demoralized because they were not able to achieve the results that were asked of them. That was understandable, given that the chain had just set up shop in Québec. So I created the "Roger" goals to celebrate small victories. The idea was to show employees that we would evolve together, one step at a time."
Thank you Roger
22 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
For all the lessons, advice and breakfasts over the years. You have been an amazing mentor. Happy retirement, enjoy every moment of it !
- Patrick
C M Y CM MY CY CMY K Legacy_Thank_You_Roger_FINAL_EN_vert.pdf 1 2023-03-13 13:13
JEAN LANGLOIS AN INTERVIEW WITH GLOBAL NEWS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE23
24 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
ROGER ANSWERS QUESTIONS AT PRESS CONFERENCE PROMOTING THE BRIDGE-BONAVENTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
THE DAY HE LEFT HOME DEPOT
LAUNCH OF CITY OF MONTRÉAL'S FACILITATING UNIT
RADIO-CANADA INTERVIEW ABOUT 700 ST. JACQUES PROJECT
LAUNCH OF BIXI IN
2015
JEAN LANGLOIS
JBC MÉDIA BY ÉRIC CARRIÈRE JEAN LANGLOIS
BIXI MONTRÉAL
JEAN LANGLOIS
CHLOÉ ÉMILIE FRANÇOISE PELLETIER FROM GABRIEL MOTO MONTRÉAL WITH ROGER PLAMONDON
JBC MÉDIA BY ÉRIC CARRIÈRE
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 25 IN STUDIO FOR VIRTUAL EDITION OF MONTRÉAL REAL ESTATE FORUM DURING THE PANDEMIC
PRESENTATION OF NEW MAISON DE RADIO-CANADA AT THE MAJOR METROPOLITAN PROJECTS FORUM
ROGER WITH LAURENCE VINCENT AND FRANCIS CHARRON
INTERVIEW
NEWS
FINAL TOUCHES BEFORE SUBMITTING PROPOSAL FOR THE NEW MAISON DE RADIO-CANADA
WITH GLOBAL
JEAN LANGLOIS
JEAN LANGLOIS
JEAN LANGLOIS
THE BROCCOLINI YEARS
In 2007 he embarked on the last part of his career by joining Broccolini. It was a firm he knew well, as it had built the Réno Dépôt in Pointe Claire and the Costco distribution centre in St. Bruno when he worked for those two banners. "The CEO John Broccolini had already approached me in the past to work for him, but the timing wasn't right. He asked me again a few years later, at a time when the stars aligned," he said.
Roger decided to take his time. "I started as a consultant, one day a week. Then I went to the office for two days, then three, and so on. Eventually I took over the management of the real estate group and it's been going on for 16 years. It's the longest job I've ever had in my career!"
In this third generation company founded 75 years ago, he found a challenging environment. "Broccolini is a general contracting firm, construction management firm, real estate developer, property owner and property manager. It is thus in a unique, privileged position covering all aspects of building construction and management. I loved that."
What were his favourite projects with Broccolini? He mentioned the Maison de RadioCanada building at the corner of Papineau and René-Lévesque East in Montréal. "Broccolini's ambition was to develop landmark buildings in strategic locations, and this is one of them. The result is spectacular!" Indeed, with glass curtain walls, lots of windows, a glazed atrium with black spruce ceiling, walkways on both sides of
26 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
THE NEW MAISON DE RADIO-CANADA
Toutefois, les chemins de Louise Wendling et de Roger Plamondon se séparent lorsque Costco ferme son bureau de Laval. La gestionnaire recommande alors Roger à Home Depot qui lui offre le poste de directeur régional pour l’est du Canada. Il sera plus tard promu vice-président
Comme il l’avait fait précédemment pour d’autres bannières, Roger Plamondon contribue au déploiement de Home Depot au pays. De 2002 à 2006, il ouvre une cinquantaine de succursales en Ontario, au Québec et dans les provinces de l’Atlantique. L’exploitation des magasins est également sous sa responsabilité.
« Je me sentais comme un poisson à l’extérieur de l’aquarium, confie-t-il. Je ne connaissais rien à la gestion des magasins. Il fallait que je fasse
Congratulations, Roger, on your outstanding career and welldeserved retirement! It has been a real pleasure and a privilege to collaborate with you during all these years.
Stéphane and the entire team 514.489.9708 arsenaultag.ca info@arsenaultag.ca COMMERCIAL - CO-OWNERSHIP - INDUSTRIAL - INSTITUTIONAL
WITH CATHERINE TAIT AND MICHAEL GOLDBLOOM AT OFFICIAL OPENING OF MAISON DE RADIO-CANADA
BROCCOLINI JEAN LANGLOIS
the atrium and bright collaborative work spaces, the building makes a statement.
The project proved to be a complex task. "For RadioCanada it was an evolving concept, so there were many changes to be made along the way," he noted. "We had to be very flexible. In addition, we delivered the building just before the pandemic, which led to several challenges in the months that followed, particularly with the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems that rely on human presence sensors. But surprise... there was no one in the building!" Those difficulties are now a thing of the past, and Maison de Radio-Canada is the pride of Broccolini, the owner. The lease with the public broadcaster is for 30 years.
Victoria sur le parc/700 St. Jacques is another project he is proud of. "In 2018 we purchased one of the last vacant lots in the International District for $100 million. At the time, it was the most expensive land transaction in Montréal's history. It struck a chord in the imagination." As will the project underway on the site, which will indeed stand out. Roger Plamondon likes to say that it will change the Montréal cityscape.
THANK
28 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
ARCHITECTURE URBAINE BLTA.CA
YOU ROGER FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT CONSTRUCTION OF THE MONTREAL SKYLINE
VICTORIA SUR LE PARC / 700 ST.JACQUES
BROCCOLINI
BROCCOLINI
29 VICTORIA SUR LE PARC / 700 ST.JACQUES BROCCOLINI COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
The Class AAA building, which will be LEED Gold certified, includes a 400-unit residential tower (Victoria on the Park) as well as a 10-storey office tower with ground-floor retail space (700 St.Jacques). A portion of the land was sold to the National Bank for the construction of its new head office.
The president of Broccolini Real Estate Group definitely enjoys a challenge, and there were many in this particular project. "Since we were also acting as general contractor for the National Bank, two huge towers were built simultaneously in downtown Montréal. Three buildings in fact, because we also built 628 Saint-Jacques, a tower of 258 condos. R oger,
It is hard to believe that you are closing this chapter of your impressive business career! We have had the opportunity to work closely together over many years and share both challenges and opportunities.
As we reflect on our relationship, we have come to respect your values, to admire your leadership and to value our friendship. As you embark on this exciting new adventure, we wish you good health, much fun, and many unforgettable life experiences.
Your friends at Magil Laurentienne magil-laurentienne.com
30 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
628 SAINT-JACQUES
BROCCOLINI
628 SAINT-JACQUES 31 BROCCOLINI COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
So about 700 residential units, 1.4 million square feet of office space and 30,000 square feet of commercial space were built simultaneously, not to mention a tunnel dug under St. Jacques Street to provide direct access to the metro and Montréal's underground network of shops and restaurants. That gives you an idea of the breadth of Broccolini's construction capability."
L/Avenue is also among his favourite projects. Built in 2017, It's a 50-storey mixed-use tower across from the Bell Centre. "It was our first residential project, a building that was home to Provigo's first inner city supermarket and a WeWork office space. It's still a landmark achievement."
Mr. Plamondon,
espaceslokalia.ca
32 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
C M Y CM MY CY CMY K
Thank you for your contribution to the development of real estate and enjoy your retirement. From
L/AVENUE BROCCOLINI
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 33 L/AVENUE BROCCOLINI COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL
A PEOPLE PERSON
Roger Plamondon is also proud of the fact that he forged strong ties with many people encountered during the course of his career. "I've always been pleased to see people who have worked with me succeed, like Sam Tsoumas, who co-founded Rosefellow after 10 years at Broccolini. Or Patrick Nihon, president of the Legacy Development Group, also a former Broccolini employee. I'd like to think I contributed to a small part of their success."
At age 68, he describes himself as a bit of an old sage who feels a responsibility to share his experience with younger people and help them develop their skills. In fact, he acts as a
mentor for several protégés among Broccolini staff. "I meet with each of them once a month. We discuss their concerns, their needs, their objectives. I try to guide them as best I can."
When asked what he will miss most once he retires, he says it is the people. "I like the dynamic between team members, the sharing and helping each other, working together to solve problems. I'm going to miss that team spirit." And certainly also miss Anne-Marie Fondacaro, his very efficient assistant for the past 10 years. "She represents the company well, she gives good advice and knows how to defuse tense situations. Without her, things would not have functioned as smoothly."
Congratulations on a great career and your contribution to the entire real estate industry! Everyone at Altus Group wishes you a great retirement!
34 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
INDEPENDENT ADVISORY SERVICES IN REAL ESTATE The leading source for expertise and understanding of the Real Estate market in Canada. Montréal : 514392-7700 Québec : 418628-6019 altusgroup.com | info@altusgroup.com
Roger,
INDEPENDENT ADVISORY SERVICES IN REAL ESTATE The leading source for expertise and understanding of the Real Estate market in Canada. Montréal : 514392-7700 Québec : 418628-6019 altusgroup.com | info@altusgroup.com
R oger, they broke the mould with you! Congratulations on this next stage in your life, and thank you for all you have done for the real estate industry! I am grateful and privileged to have you as a mentor and friend. Thank you again for all your guidance over the past five years – and for the next twenty!
Robert Vineberg
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 35
ROGER PLAMONDON WITH ANNE-MARIE FONDACARO, HIS ASSISTANT FOR THE PAST TEN YEARS
" She represents the company well, she gives good advice and knows how to defuse tense situations. Without her, things would not have functioned as smoothly. "
– Roger Plamondon
JBC MÉDIA BY DENIS BERNIER
ROGER
The road to success
What a ride!
From your friends at Fasken
36 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
Roger Plamondon is not in the habit of burning bridges, and that won't change during retirement. He remains in contact with many people he has worked with over the years. "Francis Charron, for example. We will co-chair the Montréal Real Estate Forum on June 13; I affectionately call him Junior. He used to work for me at Costco. Today, he is president of EMD-Batimo and I am a member of his advisory board. With people, I don't drop them once a task is finished." Roger with his friend and former colleague Jean Langlois, a constant companion at Broccolini for nine years, at the company's 70th anniversary celebration.
Building the future one project at a time
We’re proud to support some of the biggest players in the real estate sector in the realization of their large-scale projects nbc.ca/business
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 37
RÉVISION 1 – NOUVEAU MATÉRIEL
© MENKÈS SHOONER DAGENAIS LETOURNEUX, Architectes
ROGER PLAMONDON WITH JEAN LANGLOIS AT BROCCOLINI 70TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT
PARTING WORDS
After a busy career, Roger Plamondon is officially retiring on June 14. After his departure there will be a changing of the guard at Broccolini. Anthony Broccolini recently succeeded his father John as head of the company, and his cousin Michael Broccolini will replace Roger as president of the real estate group.
"The third generation is taking over the business, and it's the right time for me to move on, especially since my wife Rita is also retired!" But he's not about to sit back and twiddle his thumbs. He already has several projects on his schedule (see this issue's front page story ). "I've never been able to quit completely. And that's certainly not going to happen when I retire!"
W e want to pay tribute to an exceptional man who has left an indelible mark in the business world. We take this opportunity to highlight the career and retirement of Roger Plamondon, President of the Broccolini Real Estate Group. Roger has always worked in collaboration with Roxboro Excavation Inc. and built a relationship of trust with the Théorêt Family over the last 40 years. It is difficult to measure the influence he has had on our company and on the construction industry in general.
Roger is a person who has always been straightforward, rigorous in his ways of doing things while being a man of his word. His reputation as a man of integrity, honesty and dedication to his Clients and Business Partners is legendary. He has always been willing to share his knowledge and experience with his colleagues and has been an inspiration in his field. As Roger retires, we wish him all the happiness an d satisfaction he deserves. We hope he will be able to fully enjoy this new chapter in his life.
On behalf of Roxboro Excavation and the Théorêt Family, I would like to thank Roger for his extraordinary contribution to our company and the construction industry. Enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
Raynald Théorêt, President
38 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
roxboro.ca
HIS WIFE RITA ROBITAILLE, WHO IS ALREADY RETIRED AND LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIP WITH HER HUSBAND.
JBC MÉDIA BY ÉRIC CARRIÈRE
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 39
Roger, Congratulations on your extraordinary career!
many talents and limitless energy have made you one of the great builders of our city.
you for your trust and best of luck in this new chapter of your life. NEUF architect(e)s 628 ST-JACQUES, MONTREAL QC Photo: Alex St-Jean — lavery.ca Lavery salutes the career and commitment of Roger Plamondon.
him, Lavery has a passion for contributing to the success of the real estate industry. COMMITMENT, Lawyers | Notaries | Patent Agents | Trademark Agents
Dear
Your
Thank
Like
JBC MÉDIA BY ÉRIC CARRIÈRE
PHOTO TAKEN ON MARCH 8 THIS YEAR WHEN THE CITY OF MONTRÉAL PRESENTED ITS ACTION PLAN TO FACILITATE AND ACCELERATE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT TO MEMBERS OF THE QUÉBEC INSTITUTE FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT (IDU). ROGER INVESTED A GREAT DEAL OF TIME AND EFFORT ON THE PLAN AS CHAIRMAN OF THE IDU BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
HO NORS THOSE WHO TRULY MAKE A D IFFERE NCE.
Like Roger Plamondon , we continue to rewrite the rules day after day.
Thank you for being an inspiration over the years... and for being an inspiration again !
Enjoy your retirement
REWRITING THE RULES.
Roger and I hit it off right from the start. He is a special person, assertive and exceptional. His sense of humour and his lighthearted side led to a beautiful friendship.
He is extremely generous with his time, his experience and his expertise. I really enjoyed working with him on a wide range of projects.
Roger, you are a source of inspiration. I hope to follow in your footsteps and, like you, to contribute to the shape and future of our city. Above all, hang on to that zaniness of yours. It makes life an exciting adventure!
When I grow up, I want to be like Roger!
Laurence Vincent President of Prével
Roger loves a paradox. Seriousness rubs shoulders with humour, amusement mingles with commitment. He is someone who always seems to be one step ahead of others, while also putting everyone at ease. When you get to know him, you realize that these are not paradoxes. They are the mark of a strong, well-rounded personality. Working with him, many have learned to combine benevolence and determination, without it being a paradox. I am one of them.
Thank you, Roger!
Louis Aucoin
Communications Strategist President of Tesla RP
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 41
Testimonial Testimonial PRÉVEL TESLA RP
ROGER, A MAN WHO HAS MARKED THE WORLD OF REAL ESTATE.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS.
THANK YOU FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE.
The team at Quo Vadis Capital wishes to extend heartfelt congratulations to Roger Plamondon, and the imminent retirement of this incredible leader and mentor.
Roger, you have inspired, boldly led and pursued your core values and beliefs with unbridled conviction. You are a tenacious, fearless visionary. Your loyalty and professionalism are exemplary. We are so fortunate to have benefited from your guidance and belief in our work. Our commitment to ESG real estate is unwavering, thanks to you. You believed in and supported our work early on, back when triple bottom line development was not where it is today.
Roger, thank you for all the amazing projects you have built in your career, and thank you also for your commitment to Montréal.
Natalie Voland President of
What a privilege to have worked with Roger for 11 years! Not only was he an incredible boss, but more importantly, he was like a father to me. We had a lot of fun talking about cars... and tattoos! Competent, welcoming and attentive, and very charismatic, he taught me to trust myself and to always be the most knowledgeable person in the room. I owe him a lot.
A giant in our industry and, in my opinion, by far the best in Canada, Roger is an exemplary ambassador for the real estate community. Regardless of his affiliations, he has always protected the great goal of development.
Thank you for everything!
Sam Tsoumas
Co-founder of Rosefellow
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 43
Testimonial
Quo Vadis
Testimonial
JBC MÉDIA BY DENIS BERNIER
ROSEFELLOW
AS PRESIDENT OF THE BROCCOLINI GROUP AND ALSO FOR THE ACTIVE ROLE HE HAS PLAYED IN THE INDUSTRY OVER THE YEARS, NOTABLY WITH THE QUÉBEC INSTITUTE FOR REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT (IDU), ROGER PLAMONDON APPEARED IN THE PAGES OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SEVERAL TIMES. IN DECEMBER 2018 HE WAS FEATURED ON THE COVER PAGE UNDER A HEADLINE THAT ECHOED HIS ENERGY AND DYNAMIC PERSONALITY – "REAL ESTATE ROCK STAR".
44 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
JBC MÉDIA BY DENIS BERNIER EMD CONSTRUCTION
What a pleasure to pay tribute to Roger Plamondon and his great contribution to the real estate and urban sectors!
I was delighted and surprised to meet him during a co-creation workshop, but more importantly, to discover his curiosity and openness to change. These essential qualities in a real estate developer, combined with his skills as a negotiator, communicator and man who unites and inspires, have made him a true leader in the industry.
I would like to emphasize Roger's generosity, as he has never refused an invitation to speak at the many events we have organized. His testimonials have helped to convey his vision and contagious enthusiasm to young and old alike, encouraging them to pursue a career in real estate.
Thank you Roger! See you soon!
Andrée De Serres, LL. L, MBA, Ph.D.
Lawyer and Professor, Department of Social and Environmental Responsibility Strategies; Holder, Ivanhoé Cambridge Chair in Real Estate, and Director, Observatory and Valuation Center innovations in real estate (OCVI2), ESG UQAM
Roger is the one who gave me a chance in real estate early in my career. For five years he mentored me at Costco and now, we are still working together after 25 years. I have great confidence in him; indeed, he is on my advisory board. Roger has been by far the most important person to me, given his wise counsel as he guided me through the real estate business. He has been an exceptional person in our industry in many ways, and helped countless people along the way.
Over time, Roger has gone from boss to friend. I will be forever grateful for his contribution to my professional development.
Francis Charron President, Batimo and Vice-president, EMD Construction
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE 45
Testimonial Testimonial
When I first met Roger in 1995 while negotiating a contract to build a Costco distribution center in Saint Bruno, I was immediately impressed. The more we dealt with him over the years, the clearer it became that we needed him on our team.
Roger joined Broccolini in 2006 and we never looked back. Roger was a driving force behind our growth and we are forever grateful for all the contributions that he has made to the Broccolini success story. Some of the greatest gifts that Roger leaves behind are his Experience, his Superpower Networking, and most importantly his Wisdom!
John Broccolini Special Construction Advisor, Vice-Chairman of the Board Broccolini
Roger is a teenager who never grew up. Extravagant, sincere and genuine, he stood out from the crowd when he arrived at the Palais des congrès on his motorcycle! But what really made him stand out was his business and relational intelligence. He is a loyal and generous man who has accumulated many successes and friends over the years.
We've been working together for 35 years, with an understanding and symbiosis between us that is deep and immediate, with no need for words. Roger, you brought a light touch and a lot of fun to business dealings.
Many will agree that you are a unique, irreplaceable force in the real estate industry. Enjoy your retirement, my dear Roger!
Denis Paquin
Lawyer, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin
46 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE : : APRIL – MAY 2023 – SPECIAL ISSUE
Testimonial Testimonial
BROCCOLINI FASKEN MARTINEAU DUMOULIN
ON YOUR CAREER
Montoni wishes to thank Roger Plamondon for his immense contribution to the world of real estate development.
Congratulations of your retirement!
"I have had an exciting career, and have been blessed both professionally and personally. In addition, I had the good fortune to finish my career at Broccolini, an exceptional company. I would like to pay my respects to all the people I worked with over the years, and I look forward to seeing you again during my retirement."
– Roger Plamondon
JBC MÉDIA BY ÉRIC CARRIÈRE