Forestry veteran Doug Murray is the new chief executive officer of the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC).
He replaces Steve Demmings who left in March after six years in the position.
Murray, a Thunder Bay native, is well-known as the former general manager of Resolute Forest Products and has more than 30 years of industry experience in Northern Ontario and British Columbia.
He officially grabs the reins of the commission on Aug. 12.
"This is an excellent opportunity for me to help build Thunder Bay,” said Murray in a statement. “I was born and raised here in Thunder Bay in a small business family. I’ve played a leadership role in the re-vitalization of the forest industry and liaised extensively with community, labour and government contacts. I'm really looking forward to working with CEDC's partners and furthering the commission’s objectives.”
A city news release called Murray “a seasoned Thunder Bay business leader with a track record of identifying opportunities.”
He's served on local service clubs and the chamber of commerce, including a four-year stint on the board of directors of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
Currently, Murray sits on the founding board of the Ontario's government's newly created Northern Policy Institute
"I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the board of directors and staff to welcome Doug,” said CEDC board chairman Paul Inksetter. “We look forward to working together for the benefit of Thunder Bay's economic development. Doug's strategic leadership and strong management skills will be an asset to the CEDC. We are very fortunate to have him join our team."
