MRL names Derek Ollmann president
Montana Rail Link (“MRL”) today announced that Washington Companies veteran Derek Ollmann, who most recently served as President of Southern Railway of British Columbia (“SRY”), part of the Washington Companies, has been named President of MRL, effective immediately. Mr. Ollmann succeeds Stacy Posey, who has stepped down from the company for personal reasons.
Larry Simkins, Washington Companies President, said, “We are thrilled to have a candidate of Derek’s experience and caliber step into the President role at this exciting and dynamic time for MRL. Following a year of robust growth, record safety performance and strong employee engagement, MRL is well-positioned to build on its success for many years to come. Having known Derek over his long tenure at SRY, I can attest that he fully embodies MRL’s culture and values, is a strategic thinker, and a person of high integrity. I am honored to welcome Derek to MRL and look forward to working closely with him over the coming years.”
Mr. Ollmann commented, “I have long admired MRL and am honored to lead the company at this important juncture. With its strong position in the industry and talented team of more than 1,200 employees, it is an exciting time to be joining MRL. I have been fortunate to be part of the Washington Companies family for 20 years, most recently as President of SRY, and I am pleased to remain part of this exceptional group of companies. I look forward to working with some of the industry’s best talent to drive continued success through a commitment to customer service.”
Mr. Simkins added, “I would also like to thank Stacy for his many contributions to MRL over the course of his tenure. On behalf of the Board, I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
About Derek Ollmann
Mr. Ollmann is a seasoned railroad executive with over 20 years of experience. Mr. Ollmann most recently served as President of SRY, having joined in 1999 and advanced through numerous positions in the Operating Department including Conductor, Operations Supervisor, Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent. He previously served as Director of Operations with responsibility for the operations, engineering and maintenance-of-way departments. Mr. Ollmann obtained his Certificate of Management from Simon Fraser University and his MBA degree from Royal Roads University. He is a member of several Railway Association of Canada committees including Operations, Regulatory and Safety.
About Montana Rail Link
Based in Missoula, Montana Rail Link is a Class II regional railroad that operates over 900 route miles of track in Montana and Idaho and employs nearly 1,200 dedicated professionals. MRL services over 150 local Montana businesses and moves their products to domestic and international markets on a daily basis. MRL remains committed to providing transportation services that result in long-term growth and prosperity for the company, and its customers and employees. As a BNSF partner, its rail shipments help feed, clothe, supply and power American and international homes and businesses every day.
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