After 16 years in the role, Robert Dalley announced his plans to step down as General Manager (GM) of the Port of Johnstown (POJ). His departure will be gradual over an 18-month period. Recruitment for a new GM will start right away. However, Robert will stay on in the role through the end of 2024. In 2025, he will take on a part-time mentorship and project management role to support the transition to a new GM and oversee key strategic initiatives.

“The future of the Port of Johnstown is bright,” said Dalley. “We’ve made significant investments over the years, and as a result, the Port has experienced tremendous growth in both our grain and marine services. I think we are well positioned for the future, and it’s time for someone new to lead this next chapter of further expansion to drive more business and economic growth in Eastern Ontario. The best is yet to come.”

Dalley announced his retirement plans to the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal’s Council on Monday evening. Council and the Port Management Committee, which acts as a board of directors for the Port, support the transition plan.

“Township Council appreciates Robert’s thoughtful consideration to his plans to retire,” said Township Mayor and member of the Port Management Committee, Tory Deschamps. “He is giving us the time we need to find a new dynamic GM, and to ensure our Port customers continue to be well served with no disruption. At the same time, the new GM will benefit from Robert’s depth of knowledge and expertise as they learn the role. Robert has been a mainstay at the Port and his leadership skills are unparalleled. He has led the Port through significant change and has secured key funding that has grown the Port of Johnstown’s reputation as a well-managed and efficient intermodal hub.”

Over the past 15 years, the Port has exceeded its goals thanks to important strategic investments that have made it more efficient and adaptable. Port revenues have grown by more than 80% since 2010, and the annual port surplus has more than doubled.

Township Council has plans to further invest in and expand the Port of Johnstown as an important economic engine for the community and Eastern Ontario. The new GM will be tasked with helping lead the development of a new strategic plan, which will provide clear direction for the Port over the next several years.

To learn more about the Port of Johnstown, visit www.portofjohnstown.com.

Media contact

Mayor Tory Deschamps
Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal
mayor@twpec.ca
613-803-2505

Additional information

The Port of Johnstown is strategically located on the St. Lawrence Seaway system, 100 kilometres south of Ottawa, 330 kilometres east of Toronto and 208 kilometres west of Montreal. It is also located at the junction of two major Ontario highways, Highways 401 and 416 and on the Toronto-Montreal railway corridor. This gives the port several ways to access eastern and western Canadian markets. The nearby international bridge allows for convenient access to New York State. The Port is well-positioned to take advantage of economic development opportunities for the region.