Acclaimed public affairs expert Daniel Gagnier joins HKDP

MONTREAL , Dec. 7 /CNW/ - Hill & Knowlton Canada is extremely proud to announce that Daniel Gagnier will be joining the HKDP, Hill & Knowlton's team of leading public affairs and communications consultants in Quebec , as a special advisor starting January 11, 2010 . Mr. Gagnier , who will be responsible for providing strategic counsel to Hill & Knowlton's public affairs clients, will also be involved in HKDP's business development efforts.

"Having served a number of governments in Canada , Quebec , and also Ontario and Saskatchewan, Daniel Gagnier possesses in-depth knowledge of the nation's political and administrative workings-knowledge that he will put to use serving Hill & Knowlton clients," added Michael Coates , President and CEO of Hill & Knowlton Canada , HKDP's parent company.

"We are delighted that Daniel Gagnier has accepted our offer to join forces with our team of strategic consultants," said François Ducharme and Daniel Matte , who serve HKDP's Quebec City and Montreal offices, respectively, in the capacity of Vice President and General Manager. "His arrival will strengthen our position as Quebec's leading public affairs agency."

Mr. Gagnier 's recognized experience and expertise, his grasp of the issues affecting key sectors of Quebec's economy, and keen knowledge of the Quebec and Canadian governments will provide the firm's current and future clients with tremendous value. An early advocate for sustainable development in Quebec , he will be a valuable resource for HKDP, which is known for its extensive involvement in energy and environmental projects.

An impressive resume

Before accepting the role of Chief of Staff for Quebec Premier Jean Charest in 2007, a position he held until recently, Daniel Gagnier spent 13 years with Alcan as Senior Vice President, Corporate and External Affairs. Prior to joining Alcan, he served in a number of government positions, including with the Canadian Department of External Affairs; in Saskatchewan, as Deputy Minister for Economic Development and Trade; and in Ontario as Deputy Minister of Energy, Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, special advisor to the cabinet, Chief of Staff of the Premier's Office, and advisor at the Privy Council Office.

During his illustrious career Mr. Gagnier has also served the Brewers Association of Canada , as its president; the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), as a member of the technical committee responsible for environmental management standards and the strategic advisory group on social responsibility; and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters association, as a member of the board of directors.

About HKDP

A Quebec leader in communications and public affairs, HKDP is a wholly owned subsidiary of world renowned Hill & Knowlton, which operates over 81 offices in over 43 countries and employs close to 30 professionals in its Quebec City and Montreal offices.

For further information: Marianne Boulet, HKDP Communications and Public Affairs, [phone] ext. 234, [email protected]