Port People: Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert’s Don Krusel Retires After 25-Year Tenure
Don Krusel retired September 11 after 25 years with the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRSA). Mr. Krusel joined the port authority in 1987 as its chief financial officer, and had served as president and CEO since 1992.
During his tenure, Mr. Krusel oversaw the conversion of Fairview Terminal from a forest and agri-products facility to one of the world’s fastest growing container terminals. Other port projects completed under his leadership include the development of the Northland Cruise Terminal, Westview Wood Pellet Export Terminal, Ridley Island Road Rail Utility Corridor, Ridley Island project cargo facility, and the just-completed Fairview Container Terminal expansion.
Mr. Krusel has been an advocate for enhancing the social well-being of the communities of northwest British Columbia through initiatives that include the Port of Prince Rupert Community Investment Fund and the implementation of several First Nations’ accommodation agreements. He has also been an active on many boards dedicated to the sustainable development of the Canadian maritime sector, including Green Marine, Ocean Networks Canada, the Western Transportation Advisory Council, and the Association of Canadian Port Authorities. He also served multiple terms on the AAPA Board of Directors, executive committee, and as chairman of AAPA’s Canadian port delegation.
Port Authority chair Bud Smith attributed the port’s current success to Mr. 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 Mr. 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."
Chief Financial Officer Joe Rektor is serving as interim president and CEO while the port authority searches for Mr. Krusel’s replacement.
Don Krusel
Photo/Prince Rupert Port Authority