The chief investment officer of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec is leaving his position today to enter French politics.
While the Caisse didn’t provide details on what Lescure is planning to do politically, La Presse reported he’s leaving to support the campaign of French presidential candidate Emmanuel Macron.
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“I have spent the past seven years working in one of the best institutions in Canada. I worked with extraordinary people and helped build a world-class investment organization whose success benefits all Quebecers,” said Lescure. “On the eve of the French elections, I have decided to enter public and political life because I want to play a quite active role at a crucial time for France and for Europe.”
Caisse’s president and chief executive officer, Michael Sabia, praised Lescure’s contributions to the pension fund since he joined the team.
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“From the moment Roland joined la Caisse in 2009, he has worked tirelessly to build what la Caisse is today. While building highly talented investment teams, Roland’s intellect and creativity have helped shape so many of the strategies we have pursued at la Caisse. And he has excelled at rallying his teams to deliver these strategies,” said Sabia.
“Over the past few months, Roland and I have discussed his involvement in public and political life, and the decision he is announcing today is a testimony to his values and who he is as a person. This kind of commitment is admirable and should inspire all of us. I am convinced that, whatever form it takes, Roland will make an important contribution to French politics and democracy.”
The Caisse has started recruiting for a chief investment officer internationally, but in the interim, Sabia will take on Lescure’s responsibilities.
Editor’s note: Story updated March 7 to note Lescure’s support for Macron’s campaign.