Building, protecting… and passing the torch with confidence
NB: This series of encounters highlights the diversity of the members of the IRCM community, the variety of their expertise and the depth of their commitment to their respective roles
For an institute of IRCM’s stature, information technology is not just a support function—it is essential, vital. Any failure, cyberattack, or breach of data integrity can have far reaching consequences.
Behind the scenes at IRCM, where everything must run seamlessly, Yves Morin has long served as a discreet conductor. After more than 20 years leading Information Technology, he is preparing to retire, leaving behind much more than systems: a culture, a team, and a solid foundation on which the Institute will continue to build.
Life has its way of surprising us. Yves’ arrival at IRCM was almost accidental—a story he recounts with a smile. Initially brought in as a consultant to migrate an old email system, he spent an entire year meeting every single employee. This full immersion marked the beginning of a lasting connection with the IRCM community—and the foundation of a deeply human approach to IT.
Over the years, Yves helped guide a profound technological transformation. He has witnessed firsthand how rapidly the field has evolved—and how crucial it is not only to keep pace but to anticipate what’s ahead.
“In the begining, we were managing infrastructure… it was more predictable. Today, everything is constantly changing.” From on site servers to cloud environments, including backup systems and cybersecurity, complexity has grown exponentially.
And yet, one constant has remained: the need for ingenuity.
“You have to make do with what you have.”
This pragmatic mindset has enabled the building of a resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding uncertainty. In an era where cyber threats are ever present, vigilance has become a core principle.
“We’re well protected,” he says simply, referring to the backup and redundancy systems now in place—a sentence that encapsulates years of careful planning and strategic decisions.
The strength of the team
Beyond technology, what Yves Morin leaves behind is, above all, a team. A close knit, approachable group deeply committed to supporting users.
“The key is to stay close to people.”This philosophy is now firmly embedded in IRCM’s DNA, despite the evolution of tools and processes. While systems have modernized—Office 365 implementation, migration to new platforms, structured service management with ticketing systems—the essence remains unchanged.
“You need people on the ground.” People who can guide, explain, and reassure.Because every successful technological transformation depends on community adoption—and that adoption is inseparable from the human dimension.
As he prepares to depart, Yves is quick to emphasize the power of collective effort.
“Everything we’ve accomplished—it’s not because of me, it’s because of the team.”A sincere acknowledgment that reflects a leadership style rooted in humility and collaboration.
Yves leaves with emotion, but with peace of mind as he looks to the future.
“I needed to know someone could take over and keep moving things forward.”Today, that moment has come. He is ready to pass the torch.
At IRCM, research is built on ideas and talent—but also on invisible, essential infrastructures. For more than two decades, Yves Morin has helped build them, secure them, and guide their evolution.
Thank you, Yves, for your rigor, your dedication… and enjoy your retirement!
