TORONTO, ON – After a very successful Annual General Meeting held last week in Toronto, the Ontario Marine Council is proud to announce its 2025 Board of Directors, which includes a new Chair and a renewed commitment to continue to advance marine interests across the province.
Hannah Bowlby, from Algoma Central Corporation, has been appointed as the next Chair of the Ontario Marine Council. With her extensive experience in marine industry and policy development to the role, Bowlby is very well positioned to continue to build on the foundational work established by Steve Salmons, the inaugural Chair of the Ontario Marine Council.
The Council also confirmed the reappointment of Ted Kirkpatrick, Ontario Shipyards, as ViceChair, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategic direction. Kirkpatrick’s continued service will help maintain the momentum of ongoing initiatives while supporting the transition to new leadership. Also joining the Executive Committee is Frank Hurkmans, Goderich Port Management Corporation, as Secretary-Treasurer. Hurkmans’ financial expertise and administrative experience will be valuable assets in managing the Council’s resources and operations.
“As Chair of the Ontario Marine Council, I am looking forward to working with the Board, our members, and stakeholders to champion the critical role of marine transportation in Ontario’s economy and supply chains,” said Hannah Bowlby, Manager, Corporate Communications at Algoma Central Corporation and incoming Chair of the Ontario Marine Council. “With Ontario’s strategic position in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region, we play a vital role in facilitating bi-national trade and fostering collaboration that strengthens communities on both sides of the border. Together, with the Province of Ontario, the OMC will prioritize advocacy for economic growth, labour needs, infrastructure enhancement, and support for green initiatives ensuring the resilience of Ontario’s marine sector for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
The 2025 Board of the OMC includes:
Bruce Burrows, Chamber of Marine Commerce
Rym Cheriet, CSL
Claudine Couture-Trudel, QSL
Larissa Fenn, HOPA Ports
Marcus Girvin, McKeil Marine
Valerie Glazer, St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation
John Grech, Picton Terminals
Chris Heikkinen, Port of Thunder Bay
Frank Montecalvo, Logistec
Mike Riehl, Ports Toronto
Steve Salmons, Port of Windsor
The Ontario Marine Council (OMC) is dedicated to promoting the development and sustainable growth of Ontario’s marine transportation sector. Through advocacy, collaboration, and education, OMC works to ensure that Ontario’s waterways remain a vital and competitive part of the province’s transportation network, driving economic growth and enhancing environmental sustainability.
Contact:
Maguessa Morel-Laforce
Executive Director, Ontario Marine Council
Mmorel-laforce@cmc-ccm.com