Chantal Desbiens

Executive Director, Legal & Compliance

Having an impact on people through the practice of law is something Chantal Desbiens was naturally drawn to. Chantal’s open-minded, caring and curious disposition, combined with her passion for giving back, advocating for others and justice led her to complete her Bachelors of Civil Law and Common Law at McGill University. 

Chantal spent over a decade working as a lawyer in private practice, where she honed her skills as a civil and commercial litigator and Federal Crown and Municipal prosecutor, ensuring the legal and ethical protection of her client’s interests. Her focus on helping others led her to consider a corporate position at Merck, a company whose commitment to patients as well as its values of integrity, ethics and teamwork strongly resonated with her. More than 18 years later, Chantal is now the Executive Director, Legal and Compliance at Merck Canada. Her current role allows her to harness her multidisciplinary expertise, problem-solving mindset and affinity for strategic negotiation to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. She is a leader within the organization and thrives on managing complex files. Her confidence and professionalism are a source of reassurance for all who work with her. 

Chantal is actively involved with her peers, community and industry leadership. She acts as Merck’s Regional Pro-Bono lead for Europe and Canada, is a Mentor for several employees and represents Merck Canada on the Intellectual Property and Legal Operational Team of Innovative Medicines Canada.

Born and raised in the Laurentians, Chantal considers the region her haven of peace.  She at her happiest in nature with her family, whether on a pair of skis, on a paddle board, hiking or otherwise active.