Seaspan ULC (Seaspan) announced that long-serving Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Whitworth, will be retiring at the end of 2017. A search for his successor immediately commenced and Seaspan is also pleased to announce that Frank Butzelaar, President and CEO of a related company, Southern Rail Link (SRY), has been identified as Jonathan’s permanent replacement effective April 3, 2017. Mr. Butzelaar’s transition will commence on March 3 and he will continue to work closely with Mr. Whitworth throughout 2017 to ensure a smooth handover.
Due to the magnitude and specialization of the National Shipbuilding Strategy Non-Combat contracts, Brian Carter, President – Seaspan Shipyards, will continue to report to Mr. Whitworth until year-end and then will report directly to the Board of Directors.
Mr. Whitworth commented “It is with mixed emotions that I am announcing my retirement. I informed the Board of Directors in 2016 that I intended to transition to retirement by the end of 2017. With the support of the Washington Companies, a search for a successor was initiated immediately. I’m happy that my successor is someone from within the Washington Companies and am confident that this choice will ensure the sustainability and growth of Seaspan. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to partner with Frank on a number of projects, and am thrilled that a seasoned transportation executive such as him will be at the helm.
Mr. Butzelaar has been with SRY since 1993, where he started as a Project Analyst before progressing in his career to President and CEO in 2008. The Board of Directors unanimously selected Frank as Jonathan’s successor based on his demonstrated ability to develop and lead high performance teams.