CN's Drysdale to chair Railway Association of Canada

The Railway Association of Canada (RAC) yesterday announced that CN executive Janet Drysdale has been appointed chair of the association's board. She succeeds Jeffrey Ellis, Canadian Pacific Kansas City's executive vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary.

Currently CN's senior vice president and chief stakeholder relations officer, Drysdale has nearly 30 years of cross-functional leadership experience. At the railroad, she oversees stakeholder engagement and communications, including public and government affairs, media relations, corporate communications and investor relations.

As a staunch advocate for the rail industry, North America’s supply chains, women in transportation and the transition to a low-carbon economy, Drysdale also is an executive sponsor of CN's Women’s Employee Resource Group, which promotes diversity and inclusion in the industry, RAC officials said in a press release.

"Her vast experience and visionary leadership will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for a competitive, sustainable and safe rail sector in Canada," said RAC President and CEO Marc Brazeau.

In 2020, the Women's Executive Network, known as WXN, named Drysdale one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women in executive leadership. In 2021, she completed the Competent Board's ESG program and certification, enhancing her expertise in sustainable governance.

"I am committed to building on the solid foundation laid by the RAC board and driving forward initiatives that enhance the sustainability, efficiency and safety of our industry," said Drysdale. "Collaboration and innovation will be key as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead."