The chair of Port Saint John’s board of directors says they, along with staff, are “elated” to learn of Jim Quinn’s appointment to the Senate.
Lisa Keenan said they are very proud of the accomplishments that Quinn brought to the port.
“He’s overseen some major projects and certainly, he has brought a lot of attention to Port Saint John and we’re going to miss him,” Keenan said.
Our Board of Directors, management & staff extends deepest congrats to @JimQuinnPSJ on the well-deserved honour of being appointed to the Senate of Canada. We also thank Jim for his commitment to the Port & the administration of Saint John Port Authority for the past 11 years. pic.twitter.com/BntWJriXiD
— Port Saint John (@PortSaintJohn) June 23, 2021
Keenan was asked about the legacy Quinn leaves behind.
“We’ve become a very well-known industry in the city and a lot of that has to do with Jim. He’s very personable. He’s able to make contacts with people. He’s able to take a lot of pride in the City of Saint John. A lot of pride in Port Saint John. … He has deep community roots in the area. He grew up in the south end of Saint John and he’s never really forgotten that,” Keenan said.
As for the next steps, Keenan said the port already had a search committee in place since Quinn was nearing retirement prior to his senate appointment.
“We’ve had a committee in place that are taking steps towards having Jim’s shoes filled. On an interim basis, the board will be meeting. We have a plan in mind. We’ll be announcing the interim CEO very shortly,” Keenan said.
She expects the announcement of the interim CEO to come in the next two weeks.
