The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) announced that Jean-Jacques (JJ) Ruest has been appointed as Chair by its Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective July 1, 2026.
Ruest was appointed to the PRPA Board of Directors by the Government of Canada, in consultation with the Port User Nominating Committee, for a three-year term starting December 17, 2024.
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Ruest has more than 40 years of leadership experience in transportation, logistics, international trade, and chemical manufacturing. Widely recognised for his expertise in the freight rail, intermodal, and port sectors, he previously served as Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chief Marketing Officer at CN Rail.
Additionally, he holds a degree in Applied Chemistry from the University of Sherbrooke, an MBA in Marketing from HEC Montréal, and has completed the Executive Business Programme at the University of Michigan. He also received the Railroad Innovator Award in 2021 and was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame in 2017.
“JJ brings experience and passion for building strong, resilient transportation networks,” said Kurt Slocombe, President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority. “As major projects come online over the next 18 months that strengthen the Prince Rupert gateway’s role in supporting Canada’s economy, I’m confident JJ will provide thoughtful guidance and strong leadership as Chair, helping us shape the Port’s next chapter of growth and success.”
“I’m honoured to serve as Chair and to work alongside such a dedicated leadership team at the Port of Prince Rupert,“ said Ruest. “This is a critical time for Canada to diversify its trade relationships, and the Port of Prince Rupert is working with partners across the supply chain to strengthen trade connections with Asia and support sustainable economic growth.”
The Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Board of Directors is comprised of seven people. Three of the Board members are appointed directly by each level of government – municipal, provincial, and federal – while the balance is appointed by the federal government in consultation with the Port User Nominating Committee. Board members are appointed for a term of no more than three years with a maximum tenure of three terms.