The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has entered a new leadership phase as it appoints an interim chief executive officer and formally begins the search for a permanent CEO. The move signals a period of continuity and renewed focus as the authority advances major infrastructure initiatives, tourism development, and long-term planning for one of Canada’s most significant waterfront destinations.
The GVHA Board of Directors has confirmed the appointment of Don Krusel as interim CEO, effective immediately. Krusel brings decades of senior-level experience in the maritime and port governance sector, positioning him as a stabilizing force during a pivotal transition period. At the same time, the board has engaged an international executive search firm to identify a permanent leader capable of guiding the harbour authority through its next chapter of growth.
Experienced Leadership During a Strategic Transition
Don Krusel is widely regarded as a respected figure in Canada’s port and maritime community. His previous role as president and chief executive officer of the Port of Prince Rupert saw him lead one of the country’s fastest-growing ports through significant expansion, infrastructure investment, and global trade integration. His experience spans port operations, financial oversight, governance, and collaboration with government, Indigenous partners, and private industry.
In addition to his national reputation, Krusel is no stranger to Victoria Harbour. Over the past several years, he has served on the GVHA Board of Directors, including time as treasurer and chair of the Audit and Finance Committee. This direct involvement has given him a deep understanding of the harbour authority’s priorities, challenges, and long-term vision, allowing for a seamless leadership transition.
The board has expressed strong confidence that Krusel’s appointment will ensure operational stability while maintaining momentum on key projects that support tourism, transportation, and economic development across the region.
Continuity Within the Executive Team
As part of the leadership transition, Judith Ethier will move into the role of chief administrative officer and executive vice president, commercial. Ethier has played a central role in shaping GVHA’s strategic direction and will continue to oversee integrated planning, commercial partnerships, and organizational alignment.
This structure ensures continuity at the executive level while balancing operational oversight with long-term strategic execution. The collaboration between Krusel and Ethier is expected to keep major initiatives on track, including waterfront revitalization projects and stakeholder engagement across government and industry.
Global Search for a Permanent CEO Begins
The GVHA Board of Directors has formally launched a search for a permanent CEO, engaging an experienced executive recruitment firm to lead the process. The search will be national and international in scope, drawing candidates from both within and outside the maritime sector to ensure a diverse and competitive pool.
The board has emphasized that the next CEO must demonstrate strong leadership in infrastructure development, public-sector governance, financial stewardship, and community engagement. With Victoria Harbour serving as both a working port and a major tourism gateway, the successful candidate will need to balance commercial operations with environmental responsibility, public access, and destination development.
Supporting Tourism and Economic Growth
Victoria Harbour plays a critical role in the region’s tourism economy, serving cruise ships, floatplanes, ferries, and marine traffic that connect Vancouver Island to global markets. Leadership stability at GVHA is particularly important as travel demand continues to grow and waterfront destinations adapt to evolving visitor expectations.
Ongoing projects tied to the Waterfront Master Plan aim to enhance public spaces, improve marine infrastructure, and support sustainable tourism. These initiatives align with broader economic development goals, including job creation, Indigenous partnerships, and long-term resilience of the harbour as a transportation and tourism hub.
Focus on Infrastructure and Sustainability
With major infrastructure investments underway or in planning stages, the interim leadership period is designed to maintain progress without disruption. GVHA continues to prioritize modern, resilient infrastructure that supports marine operations while respecting environmental standards and community values.
The authority’s work intersects with federal, provincial, and municipal frameworks related to ports, tourism, and climate adaptation. Maintaining experienced leadership during this period ensures that projects remain aligned with regulatory requirements and long-term funding strategies.
Confidence in the Road Ahead
Board leadership has described the transition as a proactive step rooted in sound governance and succession planning. By appointing an interim CEO with deep institutional knowledge while launching a comprehensive global search, GVHA is positioning itself for both short-term stability and long-term success.
The harbour authority’s leadership change reflects a broader trend across the maritime and tourism sectors, where experienced oversight and strategic vision are essential to navigating growth, sustainability, and global connectivity.
Looking to the Future
As the search for a permanent CEO continues, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority remains focused on its mission to steward the harbour in a way that supports commerce, tourism, and community access. With Don Krusel at the helm during this transition, stakeholders can expect continuity, expertise, and steady progress on initiatives that will shape the future of Victoria’s iconic waterfront.
The leadership transition underscores GVHA’s commitment to strong governance, responsible growth, and ensuring that Victoria Harbour continues to thrive as a gateway for visitors, businesses, and residents alike.
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