Corner Brook Port Corporation Announces Kelly Smith as Chief Executive Officer
Corner Brook, NL, July 4, 2025 — The Board of Directors of the Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Smith as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2025.
Smith succeeds longtime CEO Jackie Chow, whose two decades of dedicated leadership helped transform the Port into a vital engine of regional economic development.
“Kelly brings a combination of financial expertise, leadership acumen, and deep roots in the community,” said Dennis Bruce, Chair of the CBPC Board of Directors. “She has a strong track record of helping businesses grow, and we are confident she will lead the Port into its next growth phase.”
Originally from Corner Brook, Smith brings more than 23 years of experience in commercial banking and business development to her new leadership role. Most recently, she worked with TD Commercial Banking, where she served as Senior Account Manager for Western Newfoundland and Labrador, supporting a wide range of industries including transportation, construction, tourism, and marine services.
Throughout her career, Smith has worked closely with clients to develop financial strategies that enable long-term growth and resilience. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, strategic mindset, and commitment to relationship-building. Smith holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
“It’s a tremendous honour to take on this role in the community where I grew up,” said Smith. “The Port of Corner Brook has made incredible strides under Jackie’s leadership, and I’m excited to build on that momentum.”
Under her leadership, Smith aims to expand the Port’s commercial reach, diversify its revenue streams, and strengthen its position as a gateway for trade, tourism, and innovation in the region. She also plans to focus on forging new partnerships with Indigenous groups, local businesses, and educational institutions to drive sustainable, inclusive growth.
“My vision is for the Port to be not only a hub of economic activity, but also a catalyst for opportunity—supporting jobs, innovation, and community well-being,” Smith added. “We will continue to grow in a way that reflects the values and strengths of Western Newfoundland.”
Smith assumes the role at a pivotal time for the organization, as the Corner Brook Port Corporation celebrates its 20th year as an independently operated marine port. In recent years, the Port has experienced significant growth in both container shipping and cruise tourism, achieving record exports of over 8,000 containers and welcoming more than 50,000 cruise passengers.
For media inquires or further information, please contact:
Emily Penney
Marketing Coordinator
Phone: 709-634-6600
Email: epenney@cornerbrookport.com
About Corner Brook Port Corporation:
CBPC is an independent and community-based organization that provides high-quality ocean transportation and distribution services through strategic partnerships. Its vision is to create economic value by connecting Western Newfoundland and Labrador globally through tourism and trade. The Corporation achieves this through its three lines of business: industrial port operations, real estate, and cruise tourism.
