Jean Bureau is stepping down as president and CEO of Montreal-based prodco and distributor Incendo.

COO Jean-Philippe Normandeau remains with the company, according to a release published Friday (April 1) from parent company TVA Group, and will “maintain continuity in the development of Incendo.” Bureau has led Incendo since it formed as a distributor in 2001.

A publicist told Playback Daily on Monday (April 4) that Bureau (pictured) had agreed to head Incendo for three years after its acquisition by TVA Group, to ensure a smooth transition. Now that the team is solidly established under Normandeau’s leadership, Bureau “wishes to pursue personal projects.”

Incendo underwent a restructure in 2021, which saw longtime head of production Ian Whitehead depart and Graham Ludlow promoted to production and development executive. Incendo was acquired by TVA Group, a subsidiary of Quebecor Media, in 2019.

An economist and graduate of Harvard Business School, Bureau served as producer and executive producer of more than 60 movies, as well as drama series and documentaries all produced under the Incendo banner. He previously headed international and domestic distribution for Columbia, TriStar, Twentieth Century Fox, Astral, Coscient, Motion International and TVA International.

“Incendo has made a name for itself worldwide and now enjoys an enviable international reputation thanks to its people’s talent, dedication and professionalism,” said Bureau in a statement. “I will always be grateful to them and I wish them every success in the future.”

“Jean has been a pioneer in film and television production and distribution, not only in Canada but on the international stage,” added Pierre Karl Péladeau, acting president and CEO of TVA Group. “With his leadership, business acumen and passion for the industry, he built a first-class team and he leaves a legacy that extends well beyond our borders. It has been an honour to work with Jean over the past three years.”

Normandeau joined the company in 2013 after previously serving as director general of financing and tax assistance at SODEC.

Yann Paquet, VP of strategy and international affairs of Quebecor Content, said Normandeau “is the ideal person to ensure Incendo’s success in the years to come.”

“He is a talented and accomplished manager who has held important positions throughout his career. He will be able to count on our support to continue the company’s development,” said Paquet.

With files from Victoria Ahearn