Ontario Northland Appoints New President and CEO

TORONTO, April 23 /CNW/ - The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Goulet as President and Chief Executive Officer.

"Following a national search, Paul was chosen from a very rich pool of applicants," said Ted Hargreaves, Chair of the Commission. "His demonstrated leadership, exceptional experience and comprehensive understanding of the organization and the enormous contribution that Ontario Northland does and can make in the North made Paul a stand out candidate."

Goulet will take on the role in an acting capacity from May 10 to June 30, 2010, during which time he will work with current President and CEO Steve Carmichael through a transitional period. Goulet's official appointment as President and CEO of Ontario Northland will come into effect on July 1, 2010.

Goulet succeeds Carmichael, who will retire effective July 1, 2010, following a successful five year term in the position and a 28 year career with the Company. "Steve has made an incredible contribution to this organization and to all of the North," said Hargreaves. "His passion and belief in the vital role of Ontario Northland within Northern Ontario have been inspiring."

"I am honoured to take on this role," said Goulet upon learning of his appointment. "As someone who has been with the organization for five years, I understand the importance and value of Ontario Northland and its services to the North. I am also well aware of the challenges and issues facing the region and our organization and look forward to ensuring the sustainability and growth of both."

Goulet, who originally hails from Northern Ontario, is a proven leader and strategist, with a highly successful track record in team building and business transformation and change. He joined Ontario Northland in 2004, as Chief Information Officer with Ontera, the company's telecommunications division. He was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Ontera in 2006 and in 2008 also took on the responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with Ontario Northland. Prior to joining the organization, he was Director/Chief Information Officer for Deloitte Consulting Outsourcing in Washington, DC, Principal Consultant with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in both Washington, DC and Toronto, ON, and President and CEO of 1st Facilities Group, Inc. in Toronto, ON. Goulet has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Laurentian University.

Ontario Northland, an Agency of the Province of Ontario, was established in 1902 and is a recognized leader in promoting sustainable economic growth by establishing and operating transportation and telecommunication links primarily in Northeastern Ontario. With more than 1,000 employees who live and work in the North, Ontario Northland, and the economic activity it stimulates, has a dramatic impact in the region.

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For further information: Beverly Martin, Chief Communications Officer, Ontario Northland, [phone] ext. 265, cell: [phone], email: [email protected]