As the founder of Bionic Consulting, Marco Romani has supported businesses of all sizes and across all industries, from turning around struggling small companies to advising Cirque du Soleil, CAE, Rio Tinto Alcan and other large organizations on management projects.
Now chief financial officer at Walker Glass, he is applying his expansive business knowledge to helping the Montreal-based manufacturing company through an exciting phase of growth.
“Making acquisitions and managing growth is a different dynamic than restructuring and turnaround consulting, but it’s the same fundamental approach to ensuring the business foundation is solid,” he says.
“The manufacturing industry is in the process of redefining itself and becoming more technology-driven. Labour requirements are decreasing, but there’s a lot of learning to do.”
The AI influence
“I believe artificial intelligence will be a complementary tool. In fact, we’ve already seen it penetrate our industry. For example, we are using it in quality control to provide more accurate readings on any imperfections before we introduce raw materials into the manufacturing process. It is another tool to ultimately provide a better and a more specific service for customers.”
Greatest achievement
“Starting my own consulting business was a defining moment in my life. I have been passionate about every project and have treated all companies as if they were my own.”
The Concordia factor
“Concordia was a dynamic, eye-opening experience. It had a very strong reputation. Wendy Roscoe in the Accountancy undergraduate and graduate programs provided a lot of practical and well-grounded advice. Concordia is also where I met my wife of 22 years in her first week of classes.”
Paying it forward
“I’ve always believed in giving back to the community, especially through my time. My uncle was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at a young age, and I took on the work at Parkinson Québec to demonstrate to my children that you have to give back. I’m also happy to say that my uncle is still with us and an ongoing example of perseverance and strength.”