François Gagnon is the president of Influence Leadershp. With over 25 years of experience in the public sector, including 13 years as an executive in the Canadian Public Service and 11 years in the private sector, he is recognized for his expertise in leadership, adult learning, and management.

In the public service, he led national consultations, negotiated international and federal-provincial agreements, and managed national grant and contribution programs. As Senior Director of Leadership Development at the Canada School of Public Service, he oversaw a comprehensive review of leadership development programs for the government.

In 2013, he founded Lead-Action, a firm dedicated to leadership development, which he led until its acquisition in 2019 by the Institute on Governance (IOG). Joining the Institute as Vice President of Learning, he directed a complete overhaul of the training program, enhancing the organization’s reputation in leadership training and modernizing program delivery methods. In 2025, he became the president of Influence Leadership Inc., continuing his mission to support leaders in Canada and internationally through high-quality, tailored training programs that meet organizational needs.

Holding a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in project management with a specialization in leadership and change management, Mr. Gagnon has been teaching leadership and change management for over 25 years at the Université du Québec en Outaouais, the Canada School of Public Service, Lead-Action, and the IOG. He has also delivered courses in various countries (Russia, Ukraine, Mexico, Belize, and Cambodia) and numerous training sessions in Canada’s north (Nunavut, NWT). He is certified to administer psychometric tools such as Insights Discovery, EQ-i, DISC, Resiliency Map, EQ Map, Team Management Profile, QO2, SCHOR360, and various instruments from the Center for Creative Leadership.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Gagnon is a classical pianist who regularly performs in his region and holds a private pilot’s license. His passion for leadership and his rigorous approach to professional training make him a valuable partner for organizations and leaders seeking to grow and excel.