Prince Rupert Port Authority President and CEO Don Krusel has announced his retirement from the Port after leading the organization for 25 years, according to a statement. 

Krusel joined the organization in 1987 as its Chief Financial Officer, and has served as President and CEO since 1992.

“I am proud of the tremendous accomplishments and growth that have taken place at the port and community of Prince Rupert over the last decade. With the completion of the recent expansion project to make Fairview Container Terminal the second largest terminal in Canada, and the Port well positioned for another decade of exceptional growth, it is an appropriate moment to announce my retirement from the Port and pass the leadership to a new generation,” said Krusel.

PRPA’s Board Chair Bud Smith attributed the Port’s current success to Krusel’s vision of Prince Rupert’s global potential. “Don saw the need for an innovative gateway model that could benefit trade between Canada and Asia, and he led the way in sharing his vision about how Prince Rupert could accomplish that,” said Smith. “We are truly grateful for his leadership, and I know the board, employees and the community join me in wishing Don every success in his future.”

Smith said PRPA’s partners, stakeholders and customers will be well served in the transition to a new CEO. “Don leaves the port authority in excellent hands with the leadership team and the organization he has built over the last quarter century.”

PRPA’s Chief Financial Officer Joe Rektor will be assuming the role of interim President and CEO, effective immediately. There will be a search for Krusel’s replacement.