CALGARY, Alta. — The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) has appointed Kim Royal as its new executive director, several months ahead of schedule.

Royal has taken over the role of executive director, previously filled on an interim basis by Sharon Johnson. It was a surprise announcement, considering Johnson was initially committed to the position until June.

Johnson was interim executive director following the sudden resignation by popular leader, Lane Kranenburg, who stepped aside early last summer for health reasons.

Late last summer, the AMTA thought it had found the right person for the full-time job but some background checks revealed the person selected was not fit for the job after all.

Royal has been working for United Farmers of Alberta (UFA) for the last 12 years, most recently as manager, petroleum marketing and administration.

During his tenure with UFA, Royal was an active participant on government committees concerning fuel taxation. He was also a member of the Western Canadian Task Force on Used Oil and a director for the Alberta Used Oil Management Association.