Marc Bourbonnais is a visionary executive with over 30 years of experience in digital effects, animation, project management, and studio management. Renowned for his ability to scale operations, drive high performance, and foster a culture of excellence, Marc has a proven track record of aligning complex creative and technical projects with strategic business goals. His expertise spans leadership development, technology integration, operational efficiency, and financial oversight, making him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking growth and innovation.
Currently self-employed as a leadership coach and mentor, Marc leverages his decades of experience to support executives, managers, and production teams in the technology, development, and creative industries. His focus on talent development, strategic oversight, and business process optimization has helped countless professionals refine their leadership skills, enhance operational efficiency, and achieve sustainable success. His passion for mentoring is rooted in his long-standing commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders.
Before launching his coaching career, Marc held multiple leadership roles at Digital Dimension Entertainment Group, where he spent nearly a decade driving transformative change. As Chief of Operations from 2017 to 2024, he spearheaded executive administration and cross-functional collaboration across production, finance, HR, technology, and creative teams. Under his leadership, the company optimized workflows, improved scalability, and strengthened financial health through effective budgeting and KPI tracking. Prior to this role, he served as Head of Production from 2017 to 2021 and Head of Technology from 2015 to 2017, where he pioneered real-time 3D animation pipelines and introduced agile methodologies to enhance efficiency and teamwork.
Marc’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Djee Games from 2014 to 2019, where he developed and published two mobile platform games, Flakes! and Planet Lander. This experience further deepened his expertise in game development, mobile app optimization, and creative direction. His ability to blend technical innovation with strategic business acumen set him apart as a leader who understands both the creative and operational sides of the industry.
As President and Co-Founder of Modus FX from 2007 to 2013, Marc managed executive operations for a high-end digital effects studio, overseeing a team of more than 120 professionals. He secured startup financing, established a board of directors, and played a crucial role in setting strategic business objectives. His leadership ensured Modus FX’s successful expansion and positioned it as a key player in the digital effects space. His efforts in business development and client relations helped secure high-profile projects, further cementing his reputation as an industry leader.
Marc’s career began in the world of digital effects and animation at Hybride from 1997 to 2007, where he served as Lead 3D Technical Director. In this role, he led R&D initiatives, optimized production pipelines, and contributed to groundbreaking visual effects for film and television. His technical expertise, combined with his passion for leadership, made him a natural fit for subsequent executive roles.
Beyond his professional achievements, Marc is a dedicated speaker and thought leader. He has delivered presentations at international conferences, including FMX, SIGGRAPH, and the XSI Seminar in Tokyo and Seoul, sharing insights on technology, business strategy, and industry trends. His contributions to education include teaching roles at NAD Center from 1997 to 2000, where he mentored aspiring digital artists and technologists.
Marc holds a College Certificate in 3D Animation and Effects from NAD, School of Digital Arts, Animation, and Design – UQAC. He also studied Computer Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal and earned a College Diploma in Pure and Applied Sciences from John Abbott College. His commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in his ongoing efforts to mentor, coach, and guide professionals in various industries.
His impact extends beyond the corporate world into the realm of fitness, where he is a passionate CrossFit athlete. A CrossFit Open Quarterfinalist in 2023 and 2024, Marc believes in the power of discipline, resilience, and continuous self-improvement. His dedication to personal growth is a testament to the values he brings to leadership, mentoring, and business development.
Throughout his career, Marc has been recognized for his contributions to business and innovation. He was a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year in 2012 for Quebec and received the Career Tribute Award from NAD Center in 2010. His leadership roles within industry organizations, including serving on the Board of Directors for AQA – Alliance Quebec Animation and as a VES Montreal Section Board Manager, further highlight his commitment to advancing the digital effects industry.
Character:
Marc Bourbonnais is a dynamic leader known for his integrity, resilience, and commitment to excellence. His ability to inspire and mentor others has made him a trusted figure in the industry, fostering cultures of innovation and continuous improvement.
Knowledge:
With deep expertise in digital effects, animation, and business strategy, Marc has successfully navigated the evolving landscape of technology and entertainment. His experience spans leadership, operations, financial management, and technical innovation.
Strategic:
Marc excels at aligning creative and technical projects with overarching business goals. His strategic mindset allows him to drive organizational growth, optimize processes, and ensure financial sustainability while fostering innovation.
Communication:
An engaging speaker and mentor, Marc has shared his insights on leadership, technology, and business strategy at major international conferences. His ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively has made him a respected thought leader and educator.
