Michael Dwyer Briand
Background
Michael Dwyer Briand, born in Sudbury, Ontario, is of Irish descent and has strong ties to the Gaspé region. As a child, he often visited relatives in Douglastown and promised his grandmother he would one day live there. True to his word, at 19, Michael moved to Gaspé to study at CÉGEP de la Gaspésie-les-Iles.
Entrepreneurial Journey
In February 2016, Michael co-founded O'Dwyer Micro-Distillerie Gaspésienne with his business partner Frédéric Jacques. The distillery, named after Michael's second family name, became the first of its kind in the Gaspésie region.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Professional & Academic Timeline
2007 - 2011
Aquired a Degree in Electrical Engineering
at Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Iles de la Madeleine
2011 - 2013
Worked as General Director
at National Energy Consulting and Safety
2013 - 2016
Acquired a Bachelor Degree of Engineering
at Université du Québec - Ecole de Technologie Supérieure
2016
Co-Founded O'Dwyer Micro-Distillerie Gaspésienne
Gaspe's Peninsula first of its kind
2011 - 2013
Worked as General Director
at National Energy Consulting and Safety
2007 - 2011
Aquired a Degree in Electrical Engineering
at Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Iles de la Madeleine
2016
Co-Founded O'Dwyer Micro-Distillerie Gaspésienne
Gaspe's Peninsula first of its kind
2013 - 2016
Acquired a Bachelor Degree of Engineering
at Université du Québec - Ecole de Technologie Supérieure
Role and Responsibilities
As the co-owner responsible for production and local events, Michael oversees a variety of portfolios and team members. His engineering background and fascination with distilling have been instrumental in the company's innovative approach to spirit-making.
Innovative Spirit
Michael's innovative mindset led to the creation of Radoune Wild Gin, made with local wild mushrooms - a world-first in gin production. This unique approach has earned the distillery numerous awards and recognition.
From San Francisco to Berlin, with stops in New York and San Diego, here is a non-exhaustive list of the medals Radoune Gin has earned.
Vision and Values
Michael is committed to using local ingredients and showcasing the Gaspé region through O'Dwyer's products. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks, having passion, and surrounding oneself with the right people in entrepreneurship.
Community Involvement
Beyond his role at O'Dwyer, Michael is dedicated to promoting local entrepreneurship and the Gaspé region. He often shares his experiences to inspire future entrepreneurs.
Community Involvement
Beyond his role at O'Dwyer, Michael is dedicated to promoting local entrepreneurship and the Gaspé region. He often shares his experiences to inspire future entrepreneurs.
Personal Life
Michael lives in Gaspé with his wife and children, fulfilling his childhood dream of settling in the region. He balances his entrepreneurial pursuits with family life, aiming to inspire his children to pursue their passions.
