Emilien Bouchez began his journey at MIGSO-PCUBED in 2016 as a consultant. Almost ten years later, he is now leading the development of the Toronto office in Canada. In this interview, discover his career path, shaped by international mobility and a strong passion for management and strategy.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey at MP?
I am currently the Branch Manager of our Toronto office in Canada. I’ve always enjoyed working in an international environment.
My journey with MIGSO-PCUBED began in 2016 as a PMO Consultant in Nantes, supporting nuclear operations. I quickly moved into a Delivery Manager role.
After about three years in France, I requested an international transfer to an English-speaking country. In September 2019, I joined the New York office as a consultant in the transportation sector. A year later, I decided to resume my studies and pursue an MBA. That program gave me a new perspective on the role of Business Manager (BM), and I realized it was a position that combined several dimensions I truly enjoyed: strategy, client relationships, and team management.
After completing my degree, the New York City Branch Manager at the time offered me the opportunity to become a Business Manager for the New York office. From there, I grew into a Business Unit Manager role and had the chance to lead the entire New York team.
Then, at the beginning of 2024, as part of both a personal and professional journey, I relocated to Toronto. My goal today is to build on the three years I spent in New York to grow the Toronto hub. The markets are similar, and I am encountering challenges here that I know well.
What motivated you to become a Business Manager (BM)?
Several things: first, my desire to contribute to the company’s growth. The role of Business Manager is central to the development of MIGSO-PCUBED. Then, I enjoy building strong relationships with clients and offering them concrete solutions that I can confidently deliver thanks to my experience as a consultant. And finally, the management aspect: supporting teams, helping them grow, and guiding their careers - that is a true source of motivation for me.
In your opinion, what are the key soft skills needed to succeed as a Business Manager?
First, I would say resilience and perseverance. It’s a role with ups and downs, so you need to be able to bounce back quickly. Next, strong interpersonal skills are essential: knowing how to listen, communicate, and build trust. And finally, leadership: embodying the company’s values and being a daily source of motivation for the teams.
You’ve experienced several international moves - what drove you to relocate?
I have always been very drawn to discovering new cultures. Even before joining MP, I had already lived in Chile and the Philippines. International mobility is part of my DNA. Moving to New York was a challenge not only culturally and linguistically, but also professionally. Coming to Canada was a natural next step in leveraging everything I learned to contribute to the success of the Toronto office.
How did your move to Toronto go, and what is life like there?
Honestly, very well. I would like to highlight the company’s support, whether it was for the visa process, the logistics of the move, or even the first steps in finding housing. You don’t make the move alone; you do it with MP’s support, and that’s truly reassuring.
There’s one anecdote I like to share: “We left New York on a Monday morning by car, driving through the state to reach the Canadian border. There, it felt like a real movie scene: separate questioning, formalities… the whole process lasted nearly two hours. The sun had been shining when we left, then a snowstorm hit the border, and when we finally exited the customs post, the sun was back again. It’s a beautiful memory of that symbolic crossing.”
After almost 8 years at MP, what achievement are you most proud of?
There are several, but if I had to choose one, it would be recruiting people who have truly thrived at MP. Seeing those I’ve recruited progress, grow, and gain confidence is incredibly rewarding. It’s what makes me the proudest in my journey.
What do you enjoy most about your role today?
What motivates me is the challenge. Canada, and Toronto in particular, is a market where there is still so much to build. We’re at the very beginning of the journey. We have the opportunity to lay solid foundations and create a strong hub.
I also really enjoy the collaboration between MP’s different hubs and the exchanges between teams. It’s a pleasure to work with such engaged, positive, and motivated colleagues.
What advice would you give someone who wants to experience international mobility?
I would say it’s an excellent idea, providing you are ready to open yourself to others. Mobility is a professional challenge, of course, but above all it’s a human experience. You need to be curious, willing to step out of your comfort zone, and eager to discover new cultures and new ways of working.
Preparation is also key: understanding why you want to move, researching the city, the neighborhoods, and local life. Good preparation makes integration much easier.
A final word to conclude?:
I am very happy to contribute to the development of MP Toronto. It’s a challenge, but also a fantastic opportunity to be part of a growth dynamic.
What I often tell our consultants is that when you’re successful at MP, “you can drive your own career.” I am living proof of that.
