Profiles
NWMO announces two promotions within its executive team

Derek Wilson, Chief Operating Officer (CNW Group/Nuclear Waste Management Organization)

Chris Boyle, Vice President and Chief Engineer (CNW Group/Nuclear Waste Management Organization)

TORONTO — The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has announced two new promotions within its executive team. The appointments position the organization to try and focus on the next phase of its work as it implements a plan for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel.

Derek Wilson, formerly Chief Engineer and Vice President Construction and Projects, has been promoted to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer and the former Director of Engineering, Chris Boyle, will assume the role of Vice President and Chief Engineer.

“Once the NWMO confirms in 2023 where Canada’s used nuclear fuel repository will be located, we will need to be ready to launch the regulatory decision-making process and begin to mobilize work at the site, while continuing to operate effectively and efficiently,” said Laurie Swami, President and CEO of the NWMO. “These changes to our executive team will position us for success well into the future.”

In his new role, Mr. Wilson will focus on preparing the organization for the phases of work that will need to begin after site selection. Some of his many responsibilities will include leading organizational transition, contract and project management, site mobilization, regulatory affairs and environment assessment.

“I look forward to this opportunity to support the organization in a new way in meeting our site selection milestones, while also developing organizational capabilities, systems and processes for or next phase of work,” said Mr. Wilson. “Our work over the next few years will ensure the organization is ready to seamlessly transition into the regulatory decision-making phase, mobilize at the site that is selected and prepare for construction activities.”

In his new role, Mr. Boyle will focus on the technical work needed to support the NWMO’s regulatory and design programs, which include, but are not limited to safety and technical research, engineering, geoscience, and design and innovation.

“I am excited and honoured to lead collaboration on the critical work programs our exceptional and passionate technical team is undertaking. At the same time, we recognize the need to continuously adapt to industry developments quickly with innovative solutions and grow capacity for the construction phase,” said Mr. Boyle. “The team is up to the challenge.”