TAC Board Names New Leadership

At its meeting on December 14^th, the TAC Board of Directors named a slate of officers to lead the Association for the coming year.  

Laurie LeBlanc, Deputy Minister, Ontario Ministry of Transportation, takes the helm as TAC President. Ms. LeBlanc has more than 30 years’ experience in the Ontario Public Service in a variety of policy, communications and operations positions. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective on opportunities for TAC to provide value to members. In accepting the Board appointment, Ms. LeBlanc said, “It will be an honour to serve as President of Canada’s largest national transportation-focussed association and to help guide our collaborative work towards transportation that makes Canada safe, healthy and prosperous.”

In other appointments, Paul McConnell, Deputy Minister, Highways and Public Works with the Government of Yukon, becomes Vice President (Federal/Provincial/Territorial).

Returning as Vice President (Municipal) is Tim Savoie, City Manager, City of Port Moody.

Scott Stewart, CEO, IBI Group, becomes Vice President (Members-at-Large), having served as Treasurer for the last four years.

Michael Thompson, General Manager, Transportation, City of Calgary, joins TAC’s executive leadership as Treasurer.

Sarah Wells, TAC Executive Director, continues to serve as Corporate Secretary.

In taking up the gavel, Ms. LeBlanc acknowledged outgoing president, Darren Chaisson, Deputy Minister, PEI Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy. She thanked him for his leadership through the last two years, during which the Association has faced and embraced a variety of challenges and opportunities. She cited the significant achievements made during his term, including a refreshed volunteer structure, a new focus on technology, strengthened partnerships with other organizations, as well as the success of TAC’s first-ever online conference and exhibition.

Mr. Chaisson said he had been proud to be TAC President, noting that he’s been actively involved with the Association for 15 years and will continue to represent PEI on the Board. He thanked Board Directors and TAC staff for their support during his tenure. He also commended the broader TAC membership, remarking, “Their level of activity and engagement is inspiring as we advance our shared priorities. Together, we are making positive changes for TAC, for transportation, and for Canada.”

Comprising representatives of TAC’s federal/provincial/territorial, municipal and at-large members, the Board of Directors is responsible for the governance of the Association, understanding members’ interests, setting strategic directions, approving annual budgets and monitoring operations. Like all TAC groups, members of the Board serve as volunteers and receive no remuneration for their work. The Association is fortunate to have their commitment and dedication.