News Appointments
McSweeney replaces Cheesman at OSSGA

TORONTO — Norm Cheesman, a fixture at the Ontario Stone Sand and Gravel Association (OSSGA) as its Executive Director for the last eight years, announced his departure from the organization effective immediately.

Michael McSweeney was announced as Cheesman’s replacement, as appointed by the OSSGA board of directors. In a press release issued Nov. 15, board chair Rob Pierce welcomed McSweeney, saying the change comes as the association seeks to grow key relationships during a pivotal moment.

“Ontario Stone Sandand Gravel Association finds itself at a crucial moment in time as all three levels of government are committed to the largest infrastructure investment and spend that our Province has ever seen,” Pierce said.

“With this investment our industry must broaden and deepen its relationship with our key decision makers, influencers and enablers as we work to persuade them of the fundamental importance that aggregates play in the building of our communities and the above and below infrastructure required to support that development.”

McSweeney’s prior experience in consulting and government relations work includes a recently completed year-long contact as the CEO of the Ontario Road Builders Association (ORBA). He was also president and CEO of the Cement Association of Canada (CAC) for 12 years prior to joining ORBA.

McSweeney is also a former city and regional counsellor in Ottawa, has worked for the Standard’s Council of Canada and has had other roles in the private sector.

“This is a tremendous opportunity and I am honoured and privileged to work with OSSGA’s members, our allies and stakeholders, and all level of governments to fully develop the understanding of how crucial it is to have a ready source of sand, gravel, and crushed stone close to the markets we serve,” said McSweeney. “Ensuring a safe and competitive environment for Ontario’s aggregate industry is fundamental to Ontario’s competitiveness.”

The OSSGA gave no further reason for Cheesman’s sudden departure, nor did it detail his next steps.

“OSSGA wants to thank Norm for his work over the time he served our association. We are grateful to Norm’s commitment to OSSGA and its Members during his leadership. We wish Norm well in his future endeavors,” the association said.