The Canadian Concrete Masonry Producers would like to announce the bittersweet news that our President & Founder officially retired from his role at Brampton Brick on April 16th, 2021. The good news is that Paul will be moving into the Past Chair position on the CCMPA Board of Directors and will continue to be available to support and advise.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the CCMPA membership and the block industry as a whole, we would like to thank Paul for his many years of passionate leadership. While the professional world will certainly miss the Hargest presence, we are certainly glad that he has accepted the role of Past Chair and will continue to be in close contact with CCMPA.
When asked for a few words, Paul quoted:
First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to all the colleagues who have become friends over the years, there is certainly no shortage of memories made and for those I will always be grateful. When I was elected President of OCBA in 2003, I could not have imagined that it would grow to a cross-Canada non-profit organization that runs on the voluntary support and levy dollars of the Canada Block industry. Since the beginning I have believed in the merit of concrete block, and will continue to support this industry from the role of Past-Chair for CCMPA. My hope for block is that we continue to persevere, continue to research and develop as the building design landscape changes, and continue to re-invest industry dollars into worthwhile programs and studies. To this point, CCMPA has collected over $25M in industry funds to invest in research, development and training. While this is a good start, there is still much more work to be done. I personally believe block sales are now on an upward swing. To this end, I turn over the reigns as CCMPA President to Marcus Poirier effective April 16th, 2021. I would like to thank each and every person who is taking the time to read this message, because it means our paths have crossed and I’m grateful for that. I wish you every success and continued health in life.”
Marcus Poirier, GM Block Division at Brampton Brick was appointed as the new CCMPA President:
I have always been impressed by Paul’s passion and drive for the block industry. I don’t know how a ‘struggling entrepreneur’ had the vision, time, and energy to transform the struggling Ontario Concrete Block Association into a powerful National association. The accomplishments of the CCMPA under Paul’s direction have been well recognized across North America, and are often the benchmark for successful programs. As Vice-President for over a decade, I was fortunate to learn a great deal from Paul. I wish him much happiness and relaxation in his retirement as I step humbly into the role of CCMPA President”.