About the Supply Chain Forum
The third annual Port of Halifax Supply Chain Forum event will bring together senior leaders and stakeholders who share a keen interest in the Port of Halifax supply chain priorities, issues and solutions, and opportunities.
This two-day program will:
Provide a forum for constructive and forward‑looking discussions
Highlight opportunities to improve supply chain resiliency in unpredictable times
Facilitate collaboration and networking among supply chain and port stakeholders
Discuss how to position the Port of Halifax globally and sustain meaningful change
Wednesday | October 1, 2025
9:30 am – 2:00 pm
Kartbahn Racing
PSA Halifax Grand Prix 2025
Kartbahn Racing
Back by popular demand, PSA Halifax’s Grand Prix outdoor kart racing event returns to launch Supply Chain Forum 2025 with energy and excitement. Join us for this high-adrenaline experience that offers a unique opportunity to reconnect and network with supply chain partners from across the industry in a dynamic setting.
Location: 200 Prospect Road, Goodwood NS B3T 1P2
For event registration/inquires, please email .
17:30 – 19:00
Halifax Ballroom
Welcome Reception
Kick-off this year’s event at an opening reception which overlooks beautiful Halifax Harbour. This will be a great opportunity to network with Forum attendees, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and refreshments prior to heading to any dinner plans you’ve made.
Halifax Ballroom
Thursday | October 2, 2025
07:30 – 14:00
Nova Scotia Ballroom Foyer
Forum Information and Registration Desk Open
Nova Scotia Ballroom Foyer
08:00 – 08:30
Opening and Welcome to the Forum
Setting the Stage
08:30 – 09:30
Panel Discussion 1
The Global Geopolitical Outlook – Creating Opportunities in 2026
This panel focuses on how today’s geopolitical environment has affected the ocean transportation supply chain and what lies in-store for the year ahead for global, national, and regional markets.
Moderator:Mark Szakonyi, Executive Editor, JOC, S&P Global
Panelists:Colin Driscoll, Director National Sea Logistics Development, Kuehne + Nagel;
Andres Gaviria, General Manager, CMA CGM Canada;
Chris Hall, President and CEO, The Shipping Federation of Canada;
09:30 – 09:45
Networking Break
09:45 – 10:45
Panel Discussion 2
Trade Diversification – Beyond Traditional US Markets
Given the current global economic and political realities—highlighted by US tariffs on many countries—cargo owners are looking to diversify trade beyond the traditional heavy reliance on the US market. What opportunities should the maritime industry tap into to remain competitive? How can the supply chain via Halifax play a part in optimizing customers’ renewed interest in global market diversification?
Moderator:Mark Szakonyi, Executive Editor, JOC, S&P Global
Panelists:Jill Ebbett, Director Export Order Fulfillment, McCain Foods;
Jodean Fitzpatrick, Vice President Supply Chain, Sobeys Inc.;
Jill Hurley, Senior Director Global Trade Consulting, Livingston International
10:45 – 11:00
Networking Break
11:00 – 12:00
Panel Discussion 3
Recalibrating Canada’s Ocean Supply Chain – How Can Canada Lead?
This session focuses on how governments can be supportive in Canada becoming a leader in the ocean transportation supply chain. What policies and infrastructure commitments are needed to capitalize on Canada’s strategic position to be a supply chain leader? Would more collaborative and efficient approval processes for national supply chain infrastructure projects enable economic competitiveness and growth, supply chain resiliency, job creation, productivity, as well as national unity?
Moderator:Mark Szakonyi, Executive Editor, JOC, S&P Global
Panelists:Derrick Hynes, Chief Executive Officer, National Maritime Group;
Patrick Lortie, Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer, CN;
Pascal Chan, Vice President, Strategic Policy & Supply Chains, Canadian Chamber of Commerce;
12:00 – 13:30
Luncheon & Keynote AddressTurmoil in Container Shipping to Cause Changes Far Beyond 2025Keynote Speaker:Lars Jensen, Chief Executive Officer, Vespucci Maritime
14:30 – 15:30
Board the bus from the hotel lobby
Bus Tour of the Port of HalifaxThe bus tour takes pre-registered SCF attendees on a 60-minute bus tour of the Port of Halifax’s Seaport area and an on-terminal visit to the PSA Halifax Atlantic Hub Terminal.
The bus tour is currently sold out. If you wish to be placed on the waiting list, please indicate this when you register for the Forum.
Board the bus from the hotel lobby
Register Now
The Supply Chain Forum is a “must attend” event for invited Port of Halifax supply chain senior leaders including our Operating Stakeholders, Ocean Carriers, BCOs, NVOCCs, and 3PLs. A registration fee of $50.00 is required to confirm your attendance. CN, HPA, and PSA Halifax are donating your registration fee to the Mission to Seafarers Halifax on behalf of the Forum.
The Supply Chain Forum will be staged at The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel. This newly renovated hotel is located on the historic Halifax Waterfront. The hotel offers excellent meeting facilities and state of the art audiovisual services ideal for the Supply Chain Forum. Hotel amenities include a bustling lobby bar with live entertainment; Balance Rock Coffeehouse; fitness facilities; and easy access to Halifax’s entertainment district.
The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
1919 Upper Water Street
You may reserve your room at our preferred Supply Chain Forum rate of $379/night + tax. Reserve by September 1, 2025, or while availability lasts.
Thank you for joining us in Halifax.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Andres Gaviria
General Manager
CMA CGM Canada
Andres Gaviria is an accomplished shipping executive with over 20 years of experience in the maritime and logistics industry across Canada, North and South America.
Since 2024, Mr. Gaviria has served as General Manager of CMA CGM Canada, based in Montreal, where he spearheads strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing client satisfaction and driving operational excellence for the company. Prior to his current role, Andres held several key positions within the CMA CGM Group, including Vice President of Sales for APL Canada in Vancouver BC, Vice President and Senior Director of Client Solutions in Norfolk, Virginia and Export Trade Director in Newport Beach, California. Known for his collaborative leadership approach, Gaviria fosters a culture of excellence and client-centric solutions. Mr. Gaviria holds a master’s degree in marine transportation and Logistics from Concordia University (Montreal, Qc).
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Colin Driscoll
Director National Sea Logistics Development
Kuehne + Nagel
Colin Driscoll has over 20 years of experience in international freight forwarding and supply chain strategy. He currently serves as Director, National Sea Logistics Development at Kuehne + Nagel Canada, where he leads commercial growth by designing customer-focused solutions and driving initiatives that connect global market trends with operational performance.
Throughout his career, Colin has held progressive roles in logistics and transportation, with a focus on aligning global trade dynamics with innovative supply chain practices. His work consistently has him travelling throughout Canada and key partner countries which allows for strategic planning, trade lane optimization, and cross-functional collaboration across national and international markets. Colin’s deep understanding of import-export trends and customer needs positions him as a key contributor to conversations around the future of global transportation.
Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Colin brings a practical, market-driven perspective to the evolving geopolitical landscape and its impact on ocean freight and supply chain resilience.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Jill Ebbett
Director Export Order Fulfillment
McCain Foods
Jill Ebbett is the Director of Export Order Fulfillment with McCain Foods. Jill was born and raised in Atlantic Canada and is a proud New Brunswicker! She has 25 years of experience working for McCain Foods, focused on Exports and Ocean Logistics. She is a wife and mother to four amazing daughters. Jill and her husband own a potato farm, thus rooting her in Agriculture on all sides! Jill is the Chair of the Carleton County Community Foundation and a board member of the Florenceville-Bristol Carleton COOP Grocery store and Gas Bar.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Pascal Chan
Vice President, Strategic Policy & Supply Chains
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Pascal leads the Canadian Chamber’s work on a range of issues, with a focus on supply chains and housing.
Born and raised in the nation’s capital, he has worked at various federal government departments prior to embarking on a career as a lobbyist. Pascal’s professional path has spanned various national associations and multinational corporations, with extensive experience in the areas of housing, energy, and life sciences. He has also helped organizations in need through his volunteer work with the Canadian Advocacy Network.
Since joining the Canadian Chamber, he can often be seen advocating for resolutions to supply chain issues in national and Quebec media, notably during work stoppages, discussing concerns about impacts on the economy, businesses, and Canadian families.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Patrick Lortie
Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer
CN
Patrick Lortie was appointed Senior Vice-President and Chief Strategy Officer of CN in February 2023. In this role, he leads the development and implementation of CN’s corporate strategy, including an enhanced focus on network strategies and interline relationships.
Patrick is a recognized expert in designing growth strategies and leading business transformations in the transportation industry. He has advised Boards and Executive Teams on a global basis for more than two decades. Before joining CN, he was at Oliver Wyman, where he led the firm’s global Transportation and Services Practice and oversaw the firm’s activities in Canada. He was also a member of the firm’s Global Leadership Council. Prior to that, he worked for regional airlines in France and Argentina, and for Virgin Trains, a leading passenger train operator in the United Kingdom.
Patrick sits on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Club of Montréal, and is a member of the Business Advisory Committee of the Northwestern University Transportation Center, a leading interdisciplinary education and research institution serving the transportation industry.
Patrick holds a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from the École Polytechnique de Montréal, an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, and a certificate in Strategies for Sustainable Business from MIT Sloan School of Management.
Note: Patrick is assuming accountability for the Stakeholder Relations Team including Government Affairs, Public Affairs, Media Relations and Corporate Communications while Janet Drysdale steps into the role of Chief Commercial Officer on an interim basis.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Derrick Hynes
Chief Executive Officer
National Maritime Group
Derrick Hynes is currently the CEO of the National Maritime Group (NMG). In this role, he is an advocate for nearly 100 private sector maritime employers and operators from coast to coast and through the St. Lawrence, companies that safely and efficiently handle nearly $800 million worth of cargo daily at Canada’s ports. NMG members work 24 hours a day to ensure the fluidity of national and international supply chains, moving over 21% of the country’s total traded goods. The NMG aspires to present a common voice across its diverse membership on pressing maritime matters.
Before joining NMG, Derrick served for 10 years as the President and CEO of FETCO (Federally Regulated Employers – Transportation and Communications). In this role, he managed the day- to-day operations of FETCO, an employers’ association comprised of federally regulated firms within aviation, courier, marine, rail and telecom, as well as other important industries. FETCO companies employ nearly 500,000 Canadian workers and is the primary voice for federal private sector employers on domestic workplace matters within Canada.
Derrick has for many years represented the Canadian employer community on the international stage. He has been selected to lead the Canadian Employer Delegation to the ILO International Labour Conference on several occasions and was most recently a member of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization and a member of the Equal Pay Equity International Coalition (EPIC). Derrick has spoken at numerous international events on behalf of Canadian employers.
With nearly 30 years of professional experience, in both the private and public sectors, Derrick is a skilled communicator, with proven research, writing and facilitation skills. He has served as primary media spokesperson on behalf of federal employers for many years and is a registered lobbyist who advocates on behalf of a diverse constituency. Previous employers include The Conference Board of Canada, NAV CANADA and the Government of Yukon.
Mr. Hynes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Memorial University and a Master of Public Administration from Queen’s University. He has been married to Jacqueline for more nearly 30 years and is a proud father to Adam and Leah. In his free time, Mr. Hynes is an active cyclist, cross country skier and hockey player. He is also a long-time cross country skiing instructor and minor hockey coach.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Jill Hurley
Senior Director Global Trade Consulting
Livingston International
Jill Hurley is Senior Director, Global Trade Consulting at Livingston, and a licensed attorney specializing in trade. As the practice leader, she spearheads U.S. import and export projects, offering comprehensive reviews of clients’ business models for risk assessment, crafting, and implementing import/export compliance programs, conducting audits, navigating export licensing requirements, and providing support in U.S. trade remedy matters.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Jodean Fitzpatrick
Vice President Supply Chain
Sobeys Inc.
Jody is currently the Vice-President of Integrated Supply Chain at Empire where she is responsible for overseeing the end to end product flow for all banners across the supply chain network. Specifically all inbound product flow of goods between the corporation & vendors, supply chain network planning and all distribution & transportation continuous improvement support for 26 RSC’s across the country.
Before joining Empire, Jody has held numerous progressive roles throughout her career at Canadian Tire Corporation; with 25 years of experience in Forecasting and Replenishment, Distribution, Operations Planning, Transportation & Logistics and has worked closely with Merchandising, Marketing & Store Operations teams to drive collective success to support customers.
Jody is a Professional Engineer with an Industrial Engineering degree from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Janet Drysdale
Interim Chief Commercial Officer
CN
Janet Drysdale was appointed Interim Chief Commercial Officer (Interim) on July 21, 2025, with responsibility for advancing the Company’s commercial strategy during the transition period until a permanent CCO is named. In this role, she oversees the company’s five core business units—Bulk, Petroleum & Chemicals, Industrial Products, Intermodal, and Supply Chain & Business Development—and leads sales and marketing operations, including revenue planning and forecasting.
A seasoned and versatile leader, Janet brings nearly three decades of cross-functional executive experience at CN. Over the course of her career, she has held senior roles spanning Sales & Marketing, Finance, Sustainability, Corporate Development, Investor Relations, and most recently served as Chief Stakeholder Relations Officer since 2023. Her broad expertise and strategic insight make her a key contributor to the Company’s growth efforts.
Janet has long been an advocate for the rail industry and North America’s critical supply chains, increasing the representation of women in rail, and the transition to a low carbon economy. In 2020, Janet was recognized by WXN as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the executive leadership category, and by Railway Age for her leadership, collaboration, and innovation.
Janet is an independent director of Rumo S.A., Brazil’s largest freight railway. She is Chair of the Board of the Railway Association of Canada, and she sits on the Board of the Canadian American Business Council.
Janet has an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from Queen’s University and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from McGill University. She also holds the Global Competent Boards Designation (GCB.D).
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Dan Bresolin
Vice-President, Intermodal
CN
Dan Bresolin was appointed Vice-President, Intermodal in January 2020. He is based in Brampton, ON.
Currently representing a substantial portion of CN’s revenues, Intermodal is critical to CN’s current and future success. In this expanded role, Dan will focus on driving growth in both Domestic and International Intermodal and will be responsible for all components of CN’s International and Domestic portfolios, including regional sales, marketing, brokerage and CN WorldWide freight forwarding services.
Since he joined CN in 1999, Dan has taken on increasing responsibilities through his various roles as Assistant Vice-President Intermodal, Assistant Vice-President International Intermodal, Director of Marketing, Intermodal International and Director of Sales of both Strategic Sales and Domestic Intermodal.
As a qualified Rail Conductor and Intermodal Crane Operator, Dan takes great pride in his knowledge and experience in rail operations and in helping add value for Intermodal customers.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Duncan Glass
Chief Executive Officer
PSA Halifax
Duncan Glass joined PSA Halifax in February 2025 as a Managing Director. Duncan brings over 30 years of experience in the shipping and port operations industry. He has a proven track record of enhancing terminal operations, productivity, and customer service. He has implemented technology changes and process innovations to drive efficiency. Duncan held leadership roles in Argentina and Chile, including his position as Terminal Manager of Exolgan Container Terminal, the largest container terminal in Buenos Aires. In this role, he has managed operations, engineering, IT, and government and community relations for a terminal with a capacity of 1.2 million TEU and a team of over 650 people.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Fulvio Fracassi
President & Chief Executive Officer
Halifax Port Authority
Fulvio Fracassi is a seasoned CEO and senior executive with extensive experience working with the marine industry, and has public sector experience spanning more than 30 years.
As the CEO of the Laurentian Pilotage Authority (LPA) for more than 10 years (2012-2022), he led the strategic direction, 24/7 operations and legislative mandate of Canada’s largest marine pilotage authority. In this role, he successfully developed and implemented an ambitious vision and strategy for the organization, led transformative initiatives and repositioned the LPA as a leader within the industry it services. He also played a leading role in respect of legislative reforms to modernize pilotage services in Canada and improve the marine transportation system.
Following his leadership as CEO of the LPA, Fulvio provided advisory and consultancy services and most recently joined Delegatus, a Quebec business law firm.
Prior to joining the LPA, Fulvio worked as Director General with Transport Canada, where he led the strategic direction, management and oversight of the National Marine Security Program, including inspection services and compliance activities within the scope of the Marine Transportation Security Act and Regulations.
He was also Director General at the Labour Program, a federal institution within the department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). In this capacity, he was responsible for the management and delivery of national programs in the areas of occupational health and safety, labour standards and employment equity coming under the responsibility of the federal minister of labour.
Fulvio also held a variety of legal counsel positions of increasing responsibility within the Department of Justice Canada for over 15 years providing advice in the areas of transportation law, labour law, and international trade law.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Lars Jensen
Chief Executive Officer
Vespucci Maritime
Lars Jensen has 20 years of experience from inside the container shipping industry. This covers a combined period of 8 years as Director of driving and developing market intelligence & analysis for Maersk Line, Maersk Logistics and The Containership Company. Additionally, Lars Jensen has for 2 years been CEO of the purely online container carrier Youship, as well as in charge of developing and implementing eCommerce strategy in Maersk Line.
Since 2011, Lars Jensen has acted as an independent strategic analyst, advisor and thought leader in the container shipping industry with customers including container lines, ports and terminals, universities as well as innovative digital and IT companies in the shipping sector.
Lars co-founded Sea-Intelligence in 2011 and later founded SeaIntelligence Consulting in 2013. In 2021 SeaIntelligence Consulting changed its name to Vespucci Maritime.
Prior to entering the container shipping industry, Lars Jensen completed a Ph.D. on complex mathematical analysis in physics, as well as worked with technological innovation and modelling in the Oil & Gas industry.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Mark Szakonyi
Executive Editor, JOC
S&P Global
Bringing more than a decade of experience in researching and analyzing container shipping and logistics, Mark leads editorial coverage at the JOC, encompassing JOC.com and The Journal of Commerce, part of S&P Global Market Intelligence. Szakonyi oversees the magazine’s 100-plus special reports a year, including the Annual Review and Outlook and Top 100 Importers and Exporters issues. In addition to supporting all JOC events, including TPM, TPM Asia, and the Inland Distribution Conference, he is chairman of the annual Canada Trade Conference. His analysis and work have been quoted in mainstream news media including the BBC, The Economist, NPR, and USA Today
Before joining JOC in July 2011, Mark worked for eight years as a journalist at various daily newspapers and weekly business publications, where he covered logistics, economic development, defense, and public safety. He earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and Political Science from Elmhurst College, United States, and a Master’s degree with a focus on investigative reporting at the University of Missouri, United States.
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2025 PORT OF HALIFAX SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM
Chris Hall
President and CEO
The Shipping Federation of Canada
Chris Hall has been in the marine industry for over 30 years. He is a Master Mariner and a graduate of Canadian Coast Guard College. Chris started his career at sea, sailing on vessels ranging from ice breakers in the Arctic to offshore supply vessels in the Gulf of Mexico. For the last twenty years Chris has worked ashore where he has held operational, commercial, and executive roles, most recently with a Canadian port authority. Throughout his career, Chris has been involved with port and marine operations across the country and around the world.
Chris is currently the President and CEO of The Shipping Federation of Canada - the national association that represents the owners, operators, and agents of ocean ships. The Federation works in support of a safe, efficient, competitive, environmentally sustainable, and quality-oriented marine transportation system that serves the needs of the Canadian economy. In this capacity, Chris has been called upon by the House of Commons and Senate standing committees to give expert testimony on these issues and assist in the forming of bills and national policy.
Chris is currently based in Montreal and is pleased to return to his home province of Nova Scotia to facilitate this discussion.
