Voices

Bill O'Leary named president and CEO of the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad Board of Directors announced today that Bill O'Leary has been named as President and CEO of the Alaska Railroad. O'Leary succeeds departing President and CEO Chris Aadnesen who has served in the position since September 2010.

O'Leary joined the Alaska Railroad in 2001 as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, tasked with overseeing the financial activities of the corporation as well as the human resources and supply management functions. O'Leary was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in March 2013, when his duties expanded to oversee rail transportation, engineering, mechanical, safety, labor relations, marketing, customer service, and grant administration functions. O'Leary also served as Interim CEO from April 1 to September 22, 2010.

Born and raised in Fairbanks, O'Leary earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

"It is particularly gratifying to see a lifelong Alaskan at the reins of the Alaska Railroad," said Alaska Railroad Board Chair Linda Leary. "Bill's experience with the railroad business environment and railroading operations make him a solid asset. The ARRC Board is very pleased Bill has accepted the CEO post."

"There are a number of great opportunities for the Alaska Railroad as we look ahead," said O'Leary. "I look forward to working with our employees, our customers and the state to foster that potential, and to continue to provide safe, reliable year-round transportation that supports Alaskan commerce."

O'Leary will start in his new position on November 1.

ARRC press release

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