Sollio Agriculture team: Meet Julie Simard

It was no accident that Julie Simard became the operations manager of the Saint-Romuald mill and distribution centre. Her enthusiasm, strategic thinking, and ability to build relationships of trust with employees got her where she is today.

Question: What does a mill operations manager actually do?
Answer: I lead our team of production forepersons, oversee our financial performance, manage labour relations, and make sure we follow all health and safety protocols. I’m kind of like an orchestra conductor, making sure everything runs smoothly!

Question: Do you have a responsibility or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?
Answer: I’m very proud to be in the role I’m in right now. I don’t think there are many women in agriculture who are plant or mill managers!

Question: What’s your favourite part of your job?
Answer: I like dealing with situations where I have to make quick decisions. But what I love most is interacting with people on the floor.

Question: Which Sollio Agriculture value inspires you the most?
Answer: Cooperation. Teamwork is so important, and we have a great relationship with the cooperatives. When an issue comes up, we work together to keep delivering the best customer service possible.

Question: Now for a few rapid-fire questions. Do you have a hidden talent?
Answer: I have a degree in piano from Université Laval. It taught me to be disciplined. I still play, though not as often as I’d like.

Question: How would your friends describe you?
Answer: They’d say I’m very energetic and sharp. Not afraid to speak my mind, funny, and caring.

Question: If you could listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Answer: Last Kiss by Pearl Jam. I’m a huge fan!

Question: What’s your favourite quote?
Answer: “It’s not open-heart surgery.” It’s okay to take your job seriously, but you have to keep things in perspective—we’re not saving lives here.

Question: What’s your favourite food?
Answer: Seafood risotto—I make it myself! It’s my specialty.

Question: Who’s your most inspiring colleague?
Answer: Marie-Lise Beaudoin, our quality director. She makes me think and helps me see things from a different angle. She’s really inspiring!

Question: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Answer: That it’s important to take a step back and see the bigger picture. I love that I’m spontaneous and energetic, but it has its challenges. If you want to make good decisions, you need to take the time to weigh the pros and cons.

Question: And do you have any advice for new employees starting out at Sollio Agriculture?
Answer: Be ready to wear many hats—especially in operations. We run 24 hours a day, Sunday to Friday, so there’s always something that needs your attention. You have to be able to figure things out.