KCS chooses Russ as CFO, key cog in domestic, international growth

Kansas City Southern May 23 named Ronald Russ senior vice president and chief financial officer, replacing Robert Berry, who plans to retire July 31 after serving KCS for five years.
Russ would join the railroad June 3 and assume his new responsibilities July 1; Berry plans to remain with KCS through July to assist in the transition.

Russ most recently served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for Wisconsin Central Ltd., which he joined in 1987 as treasurer. He previously served WC as executive manager and chief financial officer for Tranz Rail Holdings Ltd. in New Zealand, and served in various capacities for Soo Line Railroad, and The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad Co. during his 25-year railroad career.

"Russ' expertise in both domestic and international business will be a great asset to KCS as we focus on the growth of the NAFTA Railway," said Mike Haverty, KCS chairman, president and chief executive officer, in a prepared statement.