Julie Watson, CEO of Ultimate Tech, named AQT–National Bank CEO of the Year 2026
Mont-Tremblant (Quebec), April 17, 2026 – The AQT and National Bank proudly presented the CEO of the Year award this evening to Julie Watson, CEO of Ultimate Tech. This prestigious distinction recognizes CEOs who stand out in Quebec’s technology industry for their ability to grow innovative companies, mobilize their teams, and generate sustainable impact, despite a challenging economic environment.
All CEOs in attendance, along with our partners and the entire AQT team, also congratulated this year’s two finalists for the CEO of the Year award, Marc Boutet and Benoit Gagnon, for their achievements and their significant contributions to the tech community.
Quotes
“We are very proud to highlight Julie’s journey, a CEO in the technology community who stands out for her inspiring leadership, commitment, and strategic vision. Under her leadership, Ultimate Tech has positioned itself as a global leader in its field. Congratulations, Julie!” said Nicole Martel, CEO of AQT.
“National Bank has long been a partner of Quebec companies operating in the technology and innovation sectors. We are proud to recognize the achievements of their CEOs in partnership with AQT. Through its Technology & Innovation Group, the Bank has contributed to the success of numerous Quebec and Canadian companies for over 30 years. Our commitment to AQT is fully aligned with this mission,” said Tuyen Vo, Head of the Technology & Innovation Group at National Bank.
Julie Watson | CEO, Ultimate Tech | Industry: Software and Mobile Applications
J
ulie Watson is a second-generation CEO at Ultimate Tech, a company founded in 1989 and globally recognized for its expertise in automating workflows in the graphic communications industry. Supported by an extensive international network of partners and resellers, Ultimate develops flexible, high-performance, and platform-agnostic software solutions for print and packaging providers of all sizes.
Since taking the helm, Julie has led major investments in research and development and implemented innovative go-to-market strategies, resulting in the creation of cutting-edge technologies now used to automate operations in thousands of factories worldwide. These initiatives have earned Ultimate Tech numerous distinctions and firmly established its position as a global innovation leader in the printing industry.
Present in more than 50 countries, Ultimate Tech serves thousands of printing plants across various sectors, with multiple strategic partners including HP, Canon, Ricoh, Horizon, Meccanotecnica, and many more.
About the AQT–National Bank CEO of the Year Award
The prestigious AQT–National Bank CEO of the Year Award celebrates CEOs whose achievements inspire their peers and actively contribute to the vitality and growth of Quebec’s technology sector. The 2026 edition highlights tech CEOs who stand out in an uncertain economic environment. Through their leadership, adaptability, and vision, they have successfully mobilized their teams, navigated complex challenges, and seized opportunities despite instability. Their commitment and innovative mindset contribute to the resilience and global reach of Quebec’s tech industry.
About AQT
We are a community of tech CEOs and entrepreneurs united by the ambition to build a strong and sustainable Quebec legacy. We share a vision that goes beyond our individual companies, focused on both growth and long-term sustainability. AQT member companies generate significant economic impact through their expertise in driving digital transformation across all sectors, both nationally and internationally.
About National Bank
With assets of $606 billion as of January 31, 2026, National Bank of Canada is one of Canada’s six systemically important banks. The Bank employs more than 35,000 people in knowledge-intensive roles and operates in three main business segments in Canada: Personal and Commercial Banking, Wealth Management, and Financial Markets. A fourth segment, U.S. Specialty Finance and International, complements the growth of its domestic operations. Its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA). Learn more at nbc.ca or follow its activities on social media.
– 30 –
Information:
Charlène Brais
Advisor, Government Affairs and Public Relations
AQT
514 874-2667 x 109 | info@aqt.ca
