Jean Pigott and Women Leaders at the NCC

LOOK AT THE SIGNATURE! The name is Jean E. Pigott and her title is Chairman. The text is from 1987-88 when Jean Pigott held the top job at the National Capital Commission (NCC). Eventually, the title would adjust, not just at the NCC, but across the majority of organizations as women made their mark.

Jean E. Pigott (right) – with Jeanne Sauvé, then Governor General
of Canada on the Rideau Canal Skateway.

A mother, a successful businesswoman, an important pillar in her community and a Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Carleton, Jean Pigott was an example for women, and men, in leadership positions. During her tenure (1985-1992), the NCC took over control of the Official Residences and created Confederation Boulevard (the ceremonial route which loops around the two provinces linking landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court, the national museums and other landmarks.)

Micheline Dubé – NCC CEO (2007)                             Marie Lemay – NCC CEO (2008-2012)

Jean Pigott’s legacy cemented a home for female leadership in Canada’s Capital and at the NCC. By 2007, Micheline Dubé was interim CEO for most of the year before the appointment of Marie Lemay who held the position through to October 2012. Today, women in leadership positions span across the NCC. They are behind important decisions that shape Canada’s Capital Region. These women are executive directors or directors leading the NCC’s stewardship of parks, lands and real estate, human resources, public and corporate affairs, planning, Gatineau Park, finance, audit, legal services, environmental assessment, and wildlife conservation. None hold a title that implies they are a man. Women leaders, like Jean Pigott, changed that.