ITC Business Council Highlights: Carl Viel

Carl Viel – Chairperson of the Business Council for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Carl Viel, currently serving as the Chairperson of the Business Council for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) within the International Trade Council, is a distinguished figure in the world of international trade and economic development. With a wealth of experience and a stellar track record, Carl has made significant contributions to the realms of international trade, foreign direct investments, supply chain management, transparency, and logistics.

His journey in this industry began over 30 years ago, and his educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, along with a Degree in Governance and a certificate in Entrepreneurship from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These qualifications have played a significant role in shaping his illustrious career.

Carl’s achievements in the field of international trade are truly remarkable. He has led Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects amounting to over five billion dollars over the years, demonstrating his expertise in attracting global investments. Additionally, he has provided invaluable support to hundreds of companies in their exportation ventures, further enhancing his reputation as a trusted advisor and collaborator in the international business arena.

Among his many professional accomplishments, Carl takes immense pride in his current role as the President & CEO of Québec International. Under his leadership, the organization has played a pivotal role in supporting the economic development of the Québec City region and bolstering its national and international standing.

Throughout his career, Carl has observed the industry evolve into a more global yet locally focused landscape, with a growing emphasis on sustainability. He recognizes that sustainability and supply chain resilience are the foremost challenges facing the industry today and believes that finding the right balance between global expansion and local engagement is critical in the years to come.

Carl is particularly excited about the potential of emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and renewable energy to reshape the industry’s landscape. His advice to those entering the field is to surround themselves with the right people for support and to continuously challenge their business plans for growth.

When faced with setbacks and challenges in his work, Carl’s approach involves finding innovative solutions and presenting problems from different angles. He draws inspiration from his colleagues, who serve as his role models and sources of motivation in this dynamic field.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Carl is a well-rounded individual with a passion for sports and travel. His diverse interests reflect his multifaceted approach to both business and life.