In memoriam: CSX senior executive and change agent Mark Wallace

CSX Executive Vice President Mark Wallace died Nov. 28 following a battle with cancer. He was 52.

Wallace had moved into a strategic advisory role in June while he underwent cancer treatment. He joined CSX in spring 2017 as EVP of corporate affairs and chief of staff, and later was named EVP of sales and marketing in July 2018. He also served a stint as EVP and chief administrative officer.

Wallace became an integral contributor to the Class I's transformation to a new operating model designed to deliver best-in-class safety performance, customer service and shareholder value, CSX officials said in a press release. He applied his experience and knowledge to address the challenges of the transformation while helping lay the foundation for CSX to capitalize on new opportunities made possible by service improvements, they said.

Wallace's acumen, energy and integrity helped drive the company’s overall transformation, and more recently played a pivotal role in the railroad’s ongoing cultural transformation, said CSX President and CEO James Foote.

"The entire CSX organization is mourning Mark's loss, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family. Throughout his illness, Mark maintained his characteristic passion for life, good humor and concern for the loved ones he leaves behind," said Foote.

Wallace worked in the rail industry for 25 years. Prior to joining CSX, he held a number of positions at CN and Canadian Pacific, including CP's VP of corporate affairs and chief of staff.

Wallace is survived by his wife and two children.