Mr. Mark Collins who had been appointed CEO of BC Ferries in 2017 has been fired.
BC Ferries is bringing on board Jill Sharland as Interim President and CEO of BC Ferries effective immediately.
The board 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.
“We thank Mr. Collins for his hard work and dedication to BC Ferries. We wish him well in all future endeavours,” said Board Chair Joy MacPhail.
Via release, BC Ferries acknowledges that during his time as CEO Collins invested in upgrades to terminals, implemented a new fare flexibility model, and made significant investments in fleet renewal.
"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," added MacPhail.
Ms. Sharland joined BC Ferries in 2020 bringing extensive experience as a financial executive specializing in strategic and operational planning and financial decision support in fast-paced, capital intensive and customer driven industries. Ms. Sharland is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Masters of Business Administration from Queens University as well as an Honors Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and Physiology from Western University.
The British Columbia Ferry Services Board will continue to provide oversight in the day-to-day operations of the ferry company.