Canadian National Announces Retirement of CEO Jean-Jacques Ruest

Montreal, QB — Canadian National Railway has announced that Jean-Jacques "JJ" Ruest (pictured at right) will retire as president and chief executive officer and as a member of the board of directors, effective as of the end of January 2022, or such later time as a successor has been appointed to ensure a smooth transition.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank JJ for his dedicated service to CN over 25 years and as CEO since 2018. He has provided the company and all of our stakeholders with strong and inspired leadership," said Robert Pace, CN Board chairman.

"JJ deferred discussions on his retirement plans in order to see the Company through the potential merger with KCS and closing of the transaction, and the introduction of the strategic plan announced on Sept. 17, which is beginning to demonstrate results.

"We are grateful for his leadership and his exemplary commitment of service to the company and wish him all the best in his upcoming retirement.”

“I have been honored to lead CN during my time as chief executive officer, and I am confident that the company is well positioned to continue to thrive following my retirement," Ruest said.

"The strength of the Company’s management team and Board allow me to announce my planned retirement knowing that the Company we have built will continue to prosper.”

The board has appointed a CEO Search Committee to conduct the global search and make recommendations to the full board.

To read more, click here.

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