Developing Leaders Virtually

Cascades

Organizational Goal

Cascades Inc., founded in 1964 and headquartered in Kingsey Falls, Quebec, is a leading Canadian company specializing in sustainable, innovative, and value-added packaging, hygiene, and recovery solutions. With approximately 10,000 employees across nearly 80 production units in North America, Cascades focuses on producing, converting, and marketing products primarily composed of recycled fibers. Their diverse product portfolio includes eco-friendly packaging solutions for food, e-commerce, and retail sectors, as well as hygiene and tissue products for both professional and consumer markets.

To deliver on its strategic goals and reinforce its culture across a decentralized and diverse workforce, Cascades identified the need to strengthen leadership across all levels. The goal was to develop a resilient, collaborative leadership culture, improve cross-functional alignment, and ensure leaders were prepared to lead through change. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted plans for in-person training, Cascades partnered with Ivey Business School to transform the program without compromising quality or connection.

Solution

Cascades and The Ivey Academy adapted the LIFT Leadership Program—originally designed for in-person delivery—into a hybrid virtual format. The revised design featured a mix of half-day virtual sessions, self-paced experiential activities, and a closing in-person session when it was safe to gather. Despite initial skepticism about maintaining engagement and interactivity, the virtual format proved successful in creating an inclusive, accessible, and reflective learning experience. The program prioritized team leadership, emotional intelligence, and communication, with breakout groups, live chat interaction, and even virtual “survival kits” to foster connection and fun.

Impact

Cascades discovered that virtual leadership development could be just as effective—if not more so—than traditional in-person programming, especially for sustaining relationships, accessibility, and reflective learning.

Result	Insight	Participant Voice
Sustained Engagement	Virtual structure reduced stress and distractions	“The format struck a perfect balance—shortened days kept us focused and energized.” — Jim Burlingham, Sales Manager
Improved Networking	Peer connections continued post-program	“Our virtual cohort still meets over Zoom to share insights and solve challenges together.” — Marie-Josée Lemaire, Supervisor, Skills Development
Inclusive Experience	Greater participation across learning styles and geographies	“The program gave everyone an equal voice, no matter where they were dialing in from.” — Laura Boitnott, U.S. Sales Manager
Strategic Shift	Cascades committed to future virtual cohorts	“The virtual experience exceeded expectations. We don’t want to go back to fully in-person.” — Sylvie Daigneault, Director, Talent Management

What began as a crisis adaptation became a powerful reimagining of leadership development—one that expanded access, deepened impact, and strengthened Cascades’ commitment to evolving with its people. To learn more about the learning partnership between Ivey and Cascades, download the full case and enter your information to get in contact with our team.

Download The Full Case

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