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The Montreal Port Authority (MPA) has announced the appointment of Paul Bird as President and Chief Executive Officer. This decision will take effect on June 8, 2026. Bird previously served as Chief Commercial Officer of the MPA until March 2026.
Bird’s appointment comes at a strategic phase for the MPA, marked by securing a loan of approximately USD 870 million from the Canada Infrastructure Bank to support the Contrecœur terminal project. The economic significance of this project has been recognized by Standard & Poor’s.
The board’s succession planning was implemented in accordance with best governance practices, after the CEO position became vacant in April. Nathalie Pilon, Chair of the MPA Board, expressed her pleasure at Bird’s return, emphasizing that he will build on the significant achievements of his six-year tenure at the Port of Montreal. Bird is expected to actively contribute to the commissioning of the Contrecœur terminal and the development of new markets, benefiting the economic growth of Canada and Quebec. The board has full confidence in his appointment and assures him of support to ensure the continuity of the MPA’s mission.
Bird stated that the MPA plays a central role in supporting the growth of domestic businesses. He will leverage his leadership and operational experience at the port and draw on trusted relationships with teams as well as commercial and financial partners to ensure proper operational management. Many companies rely on the diversification or reshoring of trade flows.
Paul Bird holds a degree in Applied Geology and has extensive experience in managing large-scale projects. He joined the MPA in 2020 as Senior Director of the Contrecœur Expansion Project and later served as Chief Commercial Officer. In this role, he played a crucial part in securing environmental approvals, completing design and engineering, developing partnership agreements, and initiating preliminary work for the terminal project. Previously, he was responsible for infrastructure in mining, rail, and port sectors at ArcelorMittal for nearly ten years.
The Montreal Port Authority operates the Port of Montreal, the largest container port in Eastern Canada, which serves as a diverse transshipment center for all types of goods. The port is the only container port in Quebec and is served by the largest shipping lines in the world. Additionally, it functions as an intermodal hub with a unique service offering in North America, including its own rail network directly connected to Canada’s two national rail networks. The MPA also operates a cruise terminal.
The MPA considers economic, social, and ecological aspects in its corporate initiatives, governed by a sustainable development policy. This policy is based on the principles of engagement, collaboration, and accountability. Port activities in Canada support approximately 590,000 jobs and generate nearly USD 73.9 billion in economic activity.
