Thursday, May 22, 2025
McElhanney Ltd., one of Canada’s top three largest and employee-owned engineering consulting and geomatics firms, announced a transition in its executive leadership, with Jennifer Price, Eng. MBA, succeeding Allan Russell, who has served as the president & CEO since 2013.
“Jennifer’s strategic mindset and leadership skills have consistently yielded success in her previous endeavors. She will empower her strong management team while mirroring the personal attributes that reflect McElhanney’s valued culture,” said Catherine Roome, PEng, McElhanney Ltd. board chair.
This planned transition comes as Russell moves toward retirement from the CEO role in August, following a successful almost 40-year career of significant successes and achievements, including merging two companies into McElhanney Ltd., leading the firm to sustainably grow, tripling in size during his tenure, expanding McElhanney’s reputation as one of the top consulting firms in Western Canada, and transforming the employee culture within the firm, leading him to be recognized as one of the Top 25 CEOs in Canada by Glassdoor. Russell leaves behind a legacy of exceptional entrepreneurialism, a strong corporate culture, and an excitement for the future at McElhanney.
“It has been an incredible honour to be a part of McElhanney’s story. I am deeply proud of what the team has accomplished together,” says Russell. “Jennifer is an exceptional and accomplished executive leader and business manager. She makes decisions that balance both big picture and small details. I am more than confident in Jennifer’s ability to lead McElhanney, and I look forward to the company’s future under her direction.”
As the incoming president and CEO, Price brings a wealth of experience and a proven history of leadership in the engineering consulting industry. Her previous roles include CEO, US of Buro Happold, and executive and senior leadership positions at AECOM, CH2M, and GHD. She is known for her analytical acumen, decision-making prowess, and her commitment to empowering teams.
“I am thrilled to join McElhanney, a company that stands out for its bold and adventurous spirit,” says Price. “My intention is to do everything I can to energize and support the team as we build on our solid foundation that Allan has capably cultivated. It is clear that innovation thrives here, and every person is valued at McElhanney. These are exciting times for the company.”
Price will be focused on driving controlled growth and profitability and is passionate about providing opportunities for women in STEM, young professionals, and equity-deserving groups.
The transition plan and timeline will ensure a seamless handover, with Price and Russell collaborating closely in support of the McElhanney Executive Team through the end of July 2024. Russell will continue with McElhanney in a consulting capacity until the end of March 2025.
Featured image: Allan Russell and Jennifer Price. (McElhanney)
