Canadian National appoints Jamie Lockwood as next CFO

Canadian National Railway (CN) has announced the appointment of Jamie Lockwood as its next Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, effective 1 February 2027, succeeding Ghislain Houle, who is preparing to retire after more than three decades with the company.

Houle will continue serving as Executive Vice-President and CFO until 31 January 2027, maintaining continuity through CN’s year-end financial reporting process. From 1 February, he will take on the role of Strategic Advisor to the President and Chief Executive Officer until his final day with the company on 31 March 2027.

Lockwood, currently Vice-President, Investor Relations and Special Projects, joined Canadian National in 2008 and has held several leadership positions spanning Finance, Strategy, Investor Relations and Operations. His appointment follows the company’s internal succession planning process.

Houle has served as CN’s Chief Financial Officer since 2016. During his tenure, he has overseen the company’s financial activities through periods of economic and industry change, while supporting its financial strategy and business priorities.

Tracy Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canadian National, acknowledged Houle’s contribution to the company and expressed confidence in Lockwood’s ability to maintain financial continuity and support CN’s strategic objectives.

The appointment will place Lockwood in charge of the financial operations of one of North America’s major freight railway companies. CN operates a rail network of nearly 20,000 miles, linking Canada’s eastern and western coasts with the United States Midwest and Gulf Coast.

The leadership transition is scheduled to take place over the first quarter of 2027, with Houle remaining at the company in an advisory capacity for two months after Lockwood assumes the CFO position.