The BC Ferry Services Board announced in a Friday, July 22 news release it has ended the contract of Mark Collins from his role as chief executive officer.

Collins joined BC Ferries in 2004 and held numerous positions within the company before being appointed CEO in 2017.

Joy MacPhail, chair of the BC Ferries board of directors said in a statement that the company needs a fresh voice during an era of staff shortages, service interruptions and COVID-19-related challenges.

“There are no quick fixes to these systemic challenges but as a board, we believe it is time for renewal, fresh ideas and a renewed commitment to the highest standards of customer service, safety and affordability,” MacPhail stated.

Collins has been replaced on an interim basis by Jill Sharland, who will also continue to serve as the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

The company is now embarking on a replacement for a permanent CEO.

Collins’ departure from BC Ferries comes less than a month after MacPhail was appointed chair of the BC Ferries board of directors.

Collins is entitled to severance pay, details of which have not been finalized.

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