The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that after leaving office in 1993 former prime minister Brian Mulroney became one of corporate Canada's most-sought-after deal makers and directors. The Globe's Konrad Yakabuski writes that his network of global contacts in business and government ensured his popularity. Yet no single corporate gig occupied more of Mr. Mulroney's time, or a bigger place in his heart, than his role as a director of Quebecor and mentor to its heir, Pierre Karl Peladeau. Mr. Mulroney, who died on Feb. 29, spent almost 25 years on the Montreal telecommunications and media giant's board -- including the last decade as its chairman -- opening countless doors that might otherwise have been closed to Mr. Peladeau. Mr. Mulroney's presence provided both cachet and credibility to Quebecor, especially on Bay Street, where the separatist Mr. Peladeau often faced a skeptical, if not outright hostile, audience. Mr. Mulroney's death leaves a gaping hole on Quebecor's board that will be impossible to fill. No single director can replicate his combination of business acumen, political experience, international name recognition and interpersonal skills. His replacement at Quebecor is expected in April.