Friday, January 23, 2026

CEO of Nanaimo’s Hullo fast ferry service steps down as company looks to grow

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Nanaimo’s fast ferry service, operated by Vancouver Island Ferry Company (VIFC), have announced their CEO, Alastair Caddick, will be stepping down to allow the company to grow. 

In the short time Hullo has been offering a ferry service between Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver, they have been able to establish themselves, now operating 14 daily sailings. 

VIFC says that by swapping out their CEO, they will be poised to expand their market presence and service offerings significantly—hinting at Hullo being operated beyond just a Nanaimo–Vancouver service. 

“I would like to thank the entire Hullo crew who have put their heart and soul into launching Hullo,” said Caddick. 

“It has been a privilege working alongside all of you. I am very proud of what we have collectively built, and I look forward to watching Hullo continue to grow and succeed”

To spearhead the next chapter of Hullo, VIFC says they will be initiating a comprehensive search for a permanent, growth-focused CEO to take the business to the next level. 

In the meantime, VIFC has appointed Ryan Dermody as interim CEO effective immediately. 

Dermody currently serves as a non-executive director on VIFC’s Board and is familiar with all aspects of the business.

Additionally, as a former Royal Navy officer and ex-president of Norcan, VIFC say he will bring valuable operational and leadership experience to the role. 

Once a permanent replacement CEO can be found, he will step aside. 

“Having successfully established reliable daily operations and built a dedicated team, VIFC is eager to take the next step,” stated Rupesh Amin, Executive Chairman of VIFC. 

“This transition allows us to bring in a leader specifically focused on accelerating growth, further enhancing our customer experience, and realizing the full potential of this vital transportation link. We are enthusiastic about the future and confident that Ryan’s interim leadership will add much value and drive our positive momentum.”

VIFC say they have hired a top recruitment firm to find their new leader.

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Curtis Blandy
Curtis Blandy has worked with Victoria Buzz since September 2022. Previously, he was an on air host at The Zone @ 91-3 as well as 100.3 The Q in Victoria, BC. Curtis is a graduate from NAIT’s radio and television broadcasting program in Edmonton, Alta. He thrives in covering stories on local and provincial politics as well as the Victoria music scene. Reach out to him at curtis@victoriabuzz.com.
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