On behalf of the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, President Pamela Calloway said, ”We extend a very warm welcome to Commissioner Hamlin whose 30 years of broad experience and financial expertise will add real value to this organization.”
President Calloway also recognized former Port Commissioner Lighty, “We thank Commissioner Lighty for his service on this Board; over the past few years his efforts have significantly benefitted our Port and our community.”
Commissioner Earl S. Hamlin has more than 30 years of experience in finance and economic development. He chaired the Alameda County Planning Commission for twelve years, where he was named a State of California Planning Commissioner of the Year in 2001. He served as treasurer for the Chabot Space & Science Center for six years and has served on several other commissions and committees including the Alameda County Economic Development Advisory Board and, currently, the Community Advisory Working Group to the Alameda County Transportation Authority. He received his A.B. in 1961 from Oberlin College, followed by his J.D. in 1964 and M.B.A. in 1968—both from the University of California, Berkeley.
Commissioner Hamlin began his career with Hambrecht & Quist as a financial analyst and became an investment banker for clients such as Dreyers Ice Cream, Harper Robinson (maritime logistics), Fair Isaacs (credit scoring) and U.S. Leasing (equipment leasing). He has served as director of seven companies throughout his career, the largest of which had revenues of $107 million.
Port Executive Director Omar R. Benjamin remarked, “Commissioner Hamlin’s extensive background in business and his history of leadership service will be a wonderful contribution to our Port and the community as we move forward with our strategic plan goals over the next year.”
Commissioner Hamlin stated, " It is a privilege to serve on the Port Board of Commissioners. I thank Mayor Quan and the Oakland City Council for this opportunity and I look forward to serving our community in this new role."
