GVHA launches search for permanent CEO
Interim CEO appointed to provide additional support during search process
Lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory / Victoria, B.C., December 18, 2025 — The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) is announcing the launch of a formal search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The Board of Directors has retained Boyden Executive Search, a leading search firm, to conduct the process. The search will begin imminently and will consider both internal and external candidates, with the goal of identifying a CEO with the experience and vision to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and strategic development.
To support the organization during the CEO recruitment period, the Board has appointed Don Krusel as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Don has served on GVHA’s Board of Directors as Treasurer and Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee for the past three years. In accordance with GVHA’s Board policy on CEO succession planning, Don will take a leave of absence from the Board and return to complete the remainder of his four-year term once a permanent CEO is in place.
Don brings more than 35 years of experience in the port and maritime sector, including 25 years as President and CEO of the Port of Prince Rupert, where he led significant growth and infrastructure development. His expertise in port governance, sustainability, and strategic planning will support GVHA’s leadership team during the transition.
Judith Ethier will return to her role as Chief Administrative Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial, where she will continue to lead key strategic priorities, including GVHA’s integrated planning initiative. The Board remains fully confident in the continuity and strength of GVHA’s senior management team.
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“We are very grateful to have Don’s depth of experience and leadership at the table during this transition,” said Board Chair Mark Mawhinney. “His understanding of port governance, infrastructure development, and partnership-driven growth will be invaluable as we move forward.”
“I fully support the Board’s decision and am confident this transition positions GVHA well,” said Judith Ethier. “Don’s experience will strengthen the organization during this critical time, and I look forward to working closely with him to advance our priority initiatives.”
“I am excited by this opportunity to step in and support the GVHA team during this time of transition,” said Don Krusel. “I look forward to working alongside the senior leadership team in a more hands-on capacity as the organization advances into its next chapter.”