In this article from our HR blog, we want to highlight the journeys of a French colleague who made the leap to settle in Quebec.
Our company is always on the lookout for professionals ready for this big challenge. Will our colleague testimonial convince you?
- Meet Romain Chevry, Mechanical Design Technician.
What were the reasons behind your decision to immigrate to Quebec?
I decided to immigrate and leave France in April 2021. This decision was made together with my wife. The reasons are numerous: thanks to my wife’s job (a military officer in the French Navy), we lived for three years in French Polynesia and three years in New Caledonia. This experience fostered our love for travel, discovery, and broadened our perspectives. However, each time we returned to mainland France, we noticed a negative evolution in our country (in terms of culture, society, security, and the future for our children). In short, we felt increasingly out of sync with our country (from our point of view). My wife reached a turning point in her career that required her to reflect on her short-term professional future. This allowed me to focus more on my professional future and make some decisions.
For the future of our children (two daughters), we want the best, and as a result, we are open to all possibilities. We were looking for a place that combined family life, calm and security, education, real estate opportunities, and satisfying professional opportunities for me (a strong industrial sector).
What motivated your choice to settle in Quebec and the city of Sherbrooke?
The high demand in my field of work and the qualities of Sherbrooke immediately won us over. It had to be Quebec, and preferably Sherbrooke, because:
- French language = easier integration and communication
- Snowy and cold winter climate (skiing nearby)
- Vast spaces, forests, lakes, and mountains
- Economic growth and strong industry
- Safety
- Education system with many schools and universities
Why did you choose Merkur?
After researching the steps required for us to immigrate to Quebec, the best solution for our situation was to obtain a closed work permit tied to my professional skills. I carefully selected job offers on Indeed, Journées Québec, and other sites. I had a video interview in July 2021 with a consulting company, but it was unsuccessful.
Then, through a contact, I got in touch with HR at Merkur, and everything moved very quickly. Merkur offered the opportunity to work in the Sherbrooke area with companies like BRP, Lion, and others. Perfect. I made contact in early August 2021, signed my contract in September, and the administrative process began. Merkur handled the Quebec side, and I took care of the Canada side. We finally arrived as a family on June 29, 2022, and I joined Merkur on July 8, 2022.
I want to particularly thank the HR team, who considered my application. Without her, I wouldn’t be here today. She was attentive and available. I thank her immensely for her professionalism and kindness.
What has your experience been like since you arrived?
Our experience with long-distance moves was a huge advantage in managing this transition smoothly. So far, aside from a few administrative hiccups and high inflation, we haven’t had any major surprises.
We are perfectly satisfied both professionally and as a family.
My integration at Merkur has been made easy by the entire company. My supervisor is attentive. The administrative and HR staff are competent, available, and caring (and of course, always with a smile and good humor). I’m currently working on assignment at BRP, which aligns perfectly with my desires.
After nearly four months in Quebec (already!!!), we believe we made the right choice.
Do Romain’s testimonial inspire you to join our team?
