Patriot Rail names Tonsager chief commercial officer

Patriot Rail and Ports late last week announced Paul Tonsager has been appointed chief commercial officer.

Tonsager will oversee commercial activities related to the transportation, services and ports business units. Specifically, his responsibilities will cover the growth of industrial development projects, as well as mergers and acquisition activities. He also will leverage strategic organizational capabilities by aligning and refocusing the commercial group, Patriot Rail officials said in a press release.

Tonsager comes to Patriot Rail from CN, where most recently he was responsible for U.S. business development and short-line engagement. Prior to that, he ran CN Worldwide North America, marketing and sales for CN's 31 warehouse and distribution facilities, Aquatrain and the Class I's machinery and dimensional business. He also lived in Shanghai to launch and develop CN's presence in Asia.

Prior to CN, Tonsager worked for Maersk and Crowley Maritime.

"Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to the organization for both the rail and port side.  His depth of experience in this industry will help us build upon our momentum as an industry leader, execute our current ventures and plan for new commercial opportunities in the future," said Patriot Rail Chief Executive Officer John Fenton.