The Board of Directors for the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has announced the appointment of Robert Lewis-Manning, who for seven years has been President and CEO of the Vancouver-based Chamber of Shipping, as the port’s new CEO, effective March 22, 2023. The Chamber indicated that Vice-President Bonnie Gee “will be stepping into the President’s role in March.”
Mr. Lewis-Manning takes over from Ian Robertson, who served the GVHA for almost eight years. During his tenure, Mr. Robertson completed various infrastructure development and expansion projects; and advocated for support of the region’s tourism industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, among other accomplishments. Mr. Robertson will retire after a decades-long career that included roles with the Tourism Industry Association of BC and Rocky Mountaineer.
After an extensive selection and interview process, the Board of Directors offered the role to Mr. Lewis-Manning who has over 20 years of executive-level leadership experience in the global marine transportation sector and has established a reputation as an innovative thought leader committed to building diverse and high-performing teams.
During his time with the Chamber of Shipping, he was responsible for developing and implementing a new strategic direction, including expanding client base and revenue; prioritizing partnerships with First Nations communities; and facilitating substantial changes to vessel operations in Canadian waters. He also advocated and negotiated the first marine conservation agreement in Canada to protect endangered whales, securing the support of three federal departments.
“We are delighted to welcome Robert Lewis-Manning to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority, and we look forward to working with him as we shift towards a new 10-year business and strategic plan,” said Christine Willow, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We met with many qualified candidates, though ultimately felt that Robert was the best person to continue serving our community while leading the organization into a sustainable and successful future.”
“I am thrilled to be joining the professional team at the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) as it embarks on defining its future strategic vision,” stated Robert Lewis-Manning. “I am looking forward to collaborating with the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations, business and community stakeholders, and local governments to steward GVHA’s cherished community and business assets in a responsible fashion.”
(Photo of Robert Lewis-Manning from the Chamber of Shipping)
