Transportation Forum - Economy in Gridlock Nov 29, 2017

Transportation is the #1 issue facing businesses in North Vancouver.

Traffic gridlock not only makes it difficult for clients to get to your business, but it also affects the movement of goods and the recruitment and retention of employees.

Join us at the Bosa Centre Theatre for a conversation with Kevin Desmond, CEO of Translink, and transportation expert Dr. Anthony Perl. Learn about the available options and take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions and get real answers.

The Chamber exists to support you, and your opinion matters to us. Feedback from the conversation at this event will be complied and shared with key decision makers, on behalf of our business community. This is your chance to have your voice heard!


Kevin Desmond, CEO, Translink 

Prior to Joining TransLink in 2016, Kevin served as the General Manager of King County Metro Transit, leading transit operations for the Seattle metropolitan area. During his tenure at Metro, Kevin oversaw a variety of transit modes, including buses, trains, vanpools, paratransit vans, as well as approximately 5,000 employees. In 12 years, Kevin grew ridership by 44 per cent and launched the ORCA Transit Card, a system similar to Compass. Kevin also implemented light rail, streetcar service, as well as several bus rapid transit lines.


Dr. Anthony Perl
Professor of Urban Studies and Political Science, Simon Fraser University

Anthony Perl is Professor of Urban Studies and Political Science at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. His research crosses disciplinary and national boundaries to explore policy decisions made about transportation, cities and the environment. Perl has advised governments in Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, and the United States on transportation and environmental research and policy development. 

Frank Butzelaar
Chief Executive Officer, Seaspan Marine Transportation 

Frank joined Seaspan in March 2017 before becoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in April 2017. In this role, he is responsible for developing and implementing the strategic plan, making major corporate decisions, managing the overall operations and resources of the company, and acting as the main point of contact between the Board of Directors and corporate operations. In addition to his role at Seaspan, Frank is a member of the Greater Vancouver Gateway Council and serves as a Director on the board of the Royal Columbia Hospital Foundation. He also formerly served as Director on the Railway Association of Canada board.



Lance Richardson
Vice President of Operations, Arc'teryx

Lance Richardson is vice president of operations at Arc’teryx, one of the fastest-growing outdoor equipment companies in the world. As VP of operations, Lance oversees all manufacturing and general operations at the company’s headquarters in Vancouver, Canada. His role keeps him involved in all aspects of business: finance, human resources, product development, international expansion and brand strategy. Lance also serves on the Senior Management Team. During his tenure at Arc’teryx Lance has been instrumental in furthering the company’s commitment to Canadian manufacturing and talent development.