CANADIAN National president and chief executive, Mr JJ Ruest, will retire from both roles and as a member of the CN board from the end of January 2022, or when a successor has been appointed to ensure a seamless transition.
CN has appointed a CEO search committee consisting of four board members to conduct a global search for Ruest’s replacement, and make recommendations to the full board.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank JJ for his dedicated service to CN for over 25 years and as CEO since 2018,” says Mr Robert Pace, chairman of CN’s board of directors.
Ruest deferred discussions on his retirement plans to guide CN through the potential and ultimate unsuccessful merger with fellow Class 1 railway Kansas City Southern and the introduction of the strategic plan announced on September 17.
“The strength of the management team and board allow me to announce my planned retirement knowing that the company we have built will continue to prosper,” Ruest says.
