David Emerson has contributed greatly to British Columbia’s economic success over many years of leadership in both the private and public sectors, serving his province and country with distinction.

Mr. Emerson was the first President and CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority, overseeing a huge increase in passenger traffic while more than doubling terminal and airside facilities to meet B.C.’s needs for expanded air services provincially, nationally and internationally.

He served as Chair and CEO of Canadian Western Bank and President and CEO of Canfor Corporation.  In this position, he was a key player in softwood lumber negotiations, which culminated in an Agreement with the United States while Emerson was International Trade Minister for Canada.

Mr. Emerson has also served on many boards and advisory committees including those of Telus, Terasen Gas, Finning, Timberwest Forest Corporation and BC Ferries.

Mr. Emerson’s public sector accomplishments have been substantial at both the provincial and federal levels. These include serving as Deputy Minister of Finance and Deputy Minister to the Premier provincially and as Foreign Affairs Minister and International Trade Minister and Industry Minister federally.

He was the federal Minister responsible for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as well as Minister responsible for the federal Asia Pacific Gateway Initiative.

Mr. Emerson also served as Chair of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Committee.