Armstrong Group President Randy Powell Appointed CEO
OCTOBER 22, 2009 - Armstrong Group, owners and operators of the world acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Randy Powell to President & Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Powell takes over the helm of the Vancouver, BC based organization after serving two years as the first outside President in Armstrong Group's history, second only to company founder, Peter Armstrong.
Almost twenty years ago, Mr. Armstrong acquired the Rocky Mountaineer, a struggling government owned passenger rail service, and turned it into an internationally renowned luxury train experience. Mr. Armstrong steps aside as CEO and remains as Executive Chairman.
“I am honoured to pass the torch to Randy, who in a short period of time has shown tremendous leadership and an innovative approach, which has positioned our Rocky Mountaineer for continued success and growth,” says Peter Armstrong, Executive Chairman & Founder of Armstrong Group. “Randy and his team are the future of our company and his strategic vision will grow our business, taking us into the next decade and beyond.”
Mr. Powell has over 25 years of extensive consumer product and service business leadership. Prior to joining Armstrong Group, he was President of Maple Leaf Fresh Foods, President & CEO of Second Cup, and President of S.C. Johnson and Sons.
“I am thrilled to be a part of the tourism industry and the iconic global Rocky Mountaineer brand,” says Randy Powell, President & CEO of Armstrong Group. “Our organization offers the most spectacular travel experiences in the world and in 2010, we will be celebrating our 20th anniversary, expanding our international reach, and launching many exciting new, brand initiatives.”
Armstrong Group (AG), a family-owned British Columbia based business, is the owner and operator of the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer and other associated tourism and hospitality businesses. Since its inception in 1990, the company has evolved from a small entrepreneurial dream into one of Canada's leading tourism providers. Tourism industry leaders have credited the organization for setting a new bar in guest service excellence. Rocky Mountaineer has achieved numerous accolades including three prestigious World Travel Awards as, “World's Leading Travel Experience By Train.”
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