In a late Friday news dump, the Business Council of Alabama announced CEO Billy Canary is out.
Canary’s future was sealed months ago when seven of the state’s most prominent corporations called for his removal due to his failed leadership.
APR reported on Canary’s impending ouster in April only to receive push back from BCA and its hired lackey.
Canary’s desperation and political wrangling played out in real-time as a steady stream of BCA’s marquee members exited the organization.
Alabama Power Company C.E.O. Mark Crosswhite was first to break with BCA, followed by PowerSouth, Regions Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Maynard Cooper Gale and others.
Current BCA Board Chair Perry A. Hand stood firmly by Canary as the once powerful business organization lost credibility and membership.
In a face-saving effort, BCA posted a press release around 3 p.m on Friday, where Canary says, “I am announcing today that I am retiring from my position as president and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama to pursue an opportunity as senior fellow at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.”
Hand also made statements in the press release that make it appear Canary is leaving voluntarily, but the die was cast when he and Canary failed to acknowledge what had been evident for well over a year – much of which is chronicled in many reports by APR.
