Bernie Dumas is retiring as president and CEO of the Nanaimo Port Authority, effective September 30, 2017.

“After nearly 40 years of working in the marine industry across Canada it is time to dedicate more time to my family and personal pursuits,” Dumas said in a prepared statement.

“The past nine years as the president and CEO of the Nanaimo Port Authority have been the most enjoyable and gratifying time of my career. I am pleased to have been part of the NPA’s transformation from a forest product distribution center to a multimodal port operation.”

Port Authority Board Chair Moira Jenkins lauded Dumas for his vision and innovation as leader of the port authority. “His many accomplishments reflect his exceptional commitment. He has led the port’s transformation from a forest products distribution center, to a multimodal port operation, establishing Nanaimo as the main marine gateway for trade to and from the island,” Jenkins said.

“Through Bernie’s vision, and with the introduction of DP World and containerization, the port’s short-sea shipping service now connects Vancouver Island to new global markets for island manufacturers. Bernie has been instrumental in the development of the Marine Domain Awareness System, a program which is considered one of the best in Canada, and ensures safety for our harbor and for the coast. Nanaimo can take pride in establishing this service which is highly valued by our marine community,” Jenkins added.

The Nanaimo Port Authority is one of 18 Port Authorities across Canada, established under the Canada Marine Act to promote and support the national, regional and local economies and to ensure a safe and secure harbor for cargo operations.