The Canada-Dubai GCC Business Chamber Advisory Committee was established on 1 April 2024. The primary aim of the Committee is to offer advice and support to our Co-Chairs and the Joint Secretariat in identifying projects and campaigns intended to increase bilateral trade and investment between the Canada and the Dubai.
The areas of expertise covered by the Committee members include healthcare, manufacturing, education, innovation, energy and infrastructure. The Advisory Committee will also work together to identify opportunities for bilateral collaboration in cross-cutting areas such as ESG, skills, energy transition and AI.
Vincent Bernier has worked for several major companies and organizations, including Québec’s Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Québec Nordiques hockey club.
He also served as Director of Sales and Head of U.S. and International Market Development at the Québec City Convention Centre. Following his appointment to the board of directors of Sépaq in 2020, the Government of Québec named Mr. Bernier Chair of the Board of Directors of Sépaq from February 2022 to April 2025.
Since 2023, Mr. Bernier has founded and served as President of the Canada-Dubai Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he is a strategic development advisor for Naval Québec and acts as an ambassador for the 2027 Canada Games!
A dedicated citizen, Mr. Brisson is married and the father of three children. An IT consultant for over twenty years, he holds a bachelor's degree in political science, two college diplomas, as well as various technical certifications. He is originally from Québec City.
Involved in municipal, provincial, and federal politics since 1987, Mr. Brisson has also worked as editor-in-chief and journalist for local newspapers. Over the years, he has run for various political offices, including as a candidate for the People's Party of Canada at the federal level in 2019, 2021, and 2025. He has also served as Political Lieutenant for Québec and as Québec Coordinator.
Through his 25+ year career in IT and as the owner of a business and IT consulting firm since 2018, Mr. Brisson closely monitors the digital challenges facing public administrations.
He is also the co-founder of Power GenXport, a company specializing in the analysis and sale of generators and other equipment, including a growing agricultural machinery division.
Mr. Brisson currently serves as Vice President of the Canada-Dubai Economic Chamber.
An accomplished professional in communications, business development, and strategic management, Marie-Andrée Villeneuve brings over 15 years of experience at Desjardins Group, where she held various leadership roles. She specializes in developing and implementing business strategies, team mobilization, and optimizing organizational performance.
Recognized for her ability to foster management practices that drive synergy, growth, and transformation, she combines Lean Six Sigma certification and training in public communication with strategic rigor, political acumen, and strong interpersonal skills to build collaborative, excellence-driven work environments.
Experienced entrepreneur with a strong background in construction, properly management, and steel manufacturing. Former military personnel with over a decade of service. Proven leadership and business development skills, managing multiple successful companies and real estate investments.
Harry Rao, also known as the “Honey Badger with a heart of gold,” is a UK-born business leader with over 20 years of experience in international publishing and strategic consultancy. He helped launch Four International magazine and now leads International Property & Travel, Emirates Airlines’ First & Business Class inflight magazine. Based in London, he also runs a consultancy firm supporting global companies across multiple industries.
Passionate about sustainability and global impact, Harry advocates for carbon-neutral initiatives and ethical mining. He serves as Vice Chairman of the Marine Foundation and sits on the Canada Dubai GCC Chamber of Commerce board, promoting trade and humanitarian projects. His sharp strategy and global network continue to drive meaningful change.