Friday, July 22, 2022

President and CEO Mark Collins OUT at BC Ferries

Mark Collins has been removed as
President and CEO of BC Ferries
(photo from BC Ferries)
Some rough seas for BC Ferries today, with the BC Ferry Services Board announcing the termination of Mark Collins from the Executive team at the Marine transportation provider.

“We thank Mr. Collins for his hard work and dedication to BC Ferries. We wish him well in all future endeavours,” -- Board Chair Joy McPhail

In the bio page for Mr. Collins (read it while it's still there) BC Ferries had championed his past experience that led to his hiring 

Before becoming President & CEO, Mark held leadership positions with BC Ferries for 11 years and also served as President of both Rolls Royce Marine Brazil and Italy. 

He has an MBA in Transport and Logistics from UBC, a certificate in Strategic Leadership from Oxford, a BA in Marine Geography from Saint Marys, and a Diploma of Mechanical (Marine) Engineering from Memorial University.
In addition to several past directorships, he presently serves on the boards of Interferry and Green Marine.

His removal from office comes amid a ferry transportation currently mired in a bit of a crisis, with many sailings cancelled owing to staffing shortages, included on that list sailings between Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii.


Ms. McPhail is a former NDP Cabinet Minister from years past (1993-1999) and her appointment from last month was an indication of some of the concern that the BC Government was taking towards the situation at BC Ferries.

In the announcement today,  the board notes that it decided to end Mr. Collins’ contract, which will entitle him to severance in accordance with the terms of his contract. That amount has not yet been finalized.

Taking up the duties at the helm of BC Ferries on an Interim basis is Jill Sharland.. who up until this morning was serving as the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.



Towards the future, Ms. McPhail noted of the challenges facing the Ferry service.

"Like many organizations, BC Ferries has faced recent staffing shortages, service interruptions and COVID-related challenges. There are no quick fixes to these systemic challenges but as a board, we believe it is time for renewal, fresh ideas and a renewed commitment to the highest standards of customer service, safety and affordability,"

Today's full announcement can be reviewed here.

More notes on BC Ferries Operations on the North Coast can be explored here.

We'll have more on how the BC media is covering the announcement of today as part of our Victoria Viewpoints feature on our blog D'Arcy McGee.

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