Jean-Jacques (JJ) Ruest has joined six other members on the board of directors at the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA).
Anita Anand, Canada's minister of transport confirmed his appointment in a Jan. 8 press release.
Ruest has over 40 years of experience in transportation, logistics, international trade, and chemical manufacturing. He worked at CN Rail for over 25 years and served as its president and CEO for four years.
He received the Railroad Innovator Award in 2021 and was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame in 2017. Ruest holds a degree in Applied Chemistry from the University of Sherbrooke, an MBA in Marketing from HEC Montreal, and he completed an Executive Business program at the University of Michigan.
“JJ’s extensive background and prior role in the commercial development of the Port of Prince Rupert will be a tremendous asset to PRPA during this next crucial chapter for growth and diversification at our gateway,” said Peter Lantin, board chair.
Board members are selected for a term of three years with a maximum extension of three terms.
PRPA’s board of directors comprises seven people. Three are appointed directly by each level of government – municipal, provincial, and federal – while the federal government assigns the remaining members in consultation with the Port User Nominating Committee.
PRPA is responsible for the overall planning, development, marketing, and management of the Port of Prince Rupert’s commercial port facilities.
Approximately $60 billion in annual trade moves through the port, based on 2022 data provided by PRPA’s most recent annual report.
