Ottawa, Canada — December 05, 2025 — Invest Ottawa is proud to congratulate France Hébert, Vice Chair of the Invest Ottawa Board of Directors, on her appointment as President of Defence & Security, Canada and International for CAE.
In a public announcement made earlier this month, France expressed her gratitude and excitement for stepping into this expanded leadership role:
“I’m honoured to step into the role of President for CAE’s consolidated Defence & Security business across Canada and international markets,” she wrote. “This is a pivotal moment for our industry, shaped by generational investments, global modernization efforts, and a renewed strategic focus. I’m excited to collaborate more deeply with our customers, partners, and the incredible teams at CAE as we continue to strengthen our impact and advance the next chapter of our transformation.”
“I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and inspired by all the opportunities that lie ahead.”
A Leader with Deep Impact in the Defence and Security Sector
A 35-year veteran in defence and security, France’s leadership is built on decades of experience advancing mission-critical technologies, operational excellence and secure innovation.
Her expertise includes:
- 17 years as a business leader with General Dynamics Mission Systems Canada
• Service as a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force
• Leadership across simulation, training, and defence technology transformation
• Significant contributions to Canadian and allied defence capability development
Her appointment as the Vice Chair of the Invest Ottawa Board reflects her exceptional leadership and strategic insight. France continues to play a key role in advancing Invest Ottawa’s long-term goals in the defence, security, and resilience sectors.
A Strong Signal for Canada’s Defence and Innovation Ecosystems
France’s new role at CAE comes at a time of rapid transformation in global defence, driven by modernization priorities, emerging technologies, and evolving geopolitical needs. Her leadership will help accelerate CAE’s impact across Canada and international markets, deepen collaboration with partners, and support the development of next-generation capabilities for allied forces.
Invest Ottawa extends its sincere congratulations to France on this milestone appointment and looks forward to continued collaboration as she helps shape the future of Canada’s defence and security landscape.
- Learn more about CAE’s Defence and Security Business Unit:.cae.com/defense-security
- Explore the Defence Innovation Strategy and more at DIHub.ca
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