Thursday, June 6, 2024

Transportation by water has been top-of-mind for many in the supply chain over the last year. From national and international legislation, challenges of sustainability, various disruptions and beyond, understanding the state of marine in 2024 is complex, to say the least.

In this panel, you'll get a diverse range of perspectives and insights on the challenges - as well as opportunities - on ports and marine shipping. The panelists will discuss the burning issues of the day, their perspective on what the future holds, and how their organizations are innovating and adapting.

Moderated by:

Chris Hall
President & CEO
Shipping Federation of Canada

Chris Hall has been in the marine industry for over 30 years. He is a Master Mariner and a graduate of Canadian Coast Guard College. Chris started his career at sea, sailing on vessels ranging from ice breakers in the Arctic to offshore supply vessels in the Gulf of Mexico.  For the last twenty years Chris has worked ashore where he has held operational, commercial, and executive roles, most recently with a Canadian port authority.  Throughout his career, Chris has been involved with port and marine operations across the country and around the world.

Chris is currently the President and CEO of The Shipping Federation of Canada - the national association that represents the owners, operators, and agents of ocean ships.  The Federation works in support of a safe, efficient, competitive, environmentally sustainable, and quality-oriented marine transportation system that serves the needs of the Canadian economy.  In this capacity, Chris has been called upon by House of Commons and Senate standing committees to give expert testimony on these issues and assist in the forming of bills and national policy. 

Panelists:

Alain Berard
Director, New Business Development & International Affairs
Port de Montréal

Alain Berard joined the port in June 2022. He is currently responsible for developing new supply chains for both bulk and containers, increasing international awareness of the Port of Montreal and developing a logistics hub.

Before joining the Port of Montreal, Alain spent 25 years working for a Class I rail carrier in various functions, such mechanical, Sales and Marketing, Supply Chain and I&T. Alain also has 5 years of experience in the trucking industry.

Captain Allan Gray
President and CEO
Halifax Port Authority

Captain Allan Gray is President and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority (HPA), a role he assumed in November 2019. Captain Gray leads a dedicated team focused on creating economic benefit for the region through the Port’s core lines of business which are cargo, cruise, and real estate. He is focused on advancing digital transformation, decarbonization, and safe, efficient port operations while balancing the needs of the community, economics, and the environment. During his time with HPA, the port has initiated several projects and initiatives including the 50-Year Plan and the development of The PIER at the Seaport, Canada’s first living lab for the transportation and supply chain sector. HPA and project partners were recently recognized at this year’s International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) Sustainability Awards in the “Digitalization” category. The Marine Container Examination Facility, currently under construction in Fairview Cove at the Port of Halifax, was recently awarded for being the first Envision V3 Verified Project in Canada.

Captain Gray is an experienced leader and trusted partner in the marine sector. Prior to his role at the Halifax Port Authority, Allan most recently served as the General Manager of Fremantle Ports in Australia. He was previously appointed Harbour Master in September 2008 and was appointed General Manager of Port Operations in July 2009 including commercial operations and management of the Port’s bulk business. Prior to coming ashore, Captain Gray’s career at sea spanned over 20 years trading on various vessels from RO-RO, container, bulk, and LPG Tankers. Throughout his career, Allan has been recognized for his leadership, and in 2013, and was awarded life membership for his contribution to raising the profile of the Company of Master Mariners Australia. Captain Gray currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Association of Canadian Port Authorities and is an ex-officio member of the Port Community Liaison Committee in Halifax, a working group that he established to foster collaboration and engagement between the Port and the greater community.

Jeff Stromdahl
Manager, Trade Development
Prince Rupert Port Authority

Jeff Stromdahl joined the Prince Rupert Port Authority in 2013 and currently serves as the Manager of Trade Development. Throughout his tenure, Jeff has taken on increasingly significant roles in marketing and trade development, demonstrating his commitment and expertise. In his current role, Jeff is responsible for promoting and optimizing the use of the Port's properties, facilities, and services for both existing and potential customers. His efforts are instrumental in maximizing the economic benefits that the Port's activities bring to the community and the region. Jeff's responsibilities extend across various business lines, including intermodal and bulk cargo. Additionally, he spearheads marketing, business development, and destination management for the cruise industry, driving growth and enhancing the Port's reputation as a premier destination.

Jeff holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Northern British Columbia. He is deeply engaged in his community, contributing his time and expertise to various boards, including CruiseBC, Tourism Prince Rupert, and Northern Savings Credit Union. A third-generation Rupertite, Jeff resides in Prince Rupert with his wife Erin and their son Beauden, continuing his family's legacy of community involvement and dedication.