The Port Commission opened its search for an Executive Director today and the job description is now posted on the Port’s website. The Commission intends to choose an Executive Director by end of this year.

Karras Consulting, the Port’s executive search firm, conducted an extensive outreach effort seeking input about the critical qualities and attributes for the next Port leader. The public outreach included a web survey that received more than 100 responses, an all-employee meeting and solicited input from several external community leaders and stakeholders.
The Commission will continue to engage the community and Port workers while moving forward to hire the next leader.
Under the direction and guidance of the Commission, the Executive Director will oversee the implementation of goals, objectives, business plans, budgets and programs for all business units and departments. In addition, the Executive Director develops and maintains positive relationships with tenants, customers, tribes, businesses, labor unions and community groups. The Executive Director will oversee a $10 million operating budget and 42 full time employees.
The new Executive Director will be joining the organization at a critical time following adoption of a new Strategic Plan in 2017. Through that planning endeavor, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a change agent and leader in the following areas:
•        Creating Economic Opportunities
•        Acting as an Environmental Steward
•        Creating and Maintaining Community Assets
Combined investment in these community-designed priorities will help move the Port toward the ultimate goal: A More Resilient Thurston County.
The five goals of the Port Commission include:
•        Strengthen our commitment to serve all of Thurston County
•        Be a leader in Environmental Stewardship
•        Promote and prioritize Economic Development throughout Thurston County
•        Optimize and sustain the resources (finances, human resources, time, and infrastructure/equipment) necessary for the Port to thrive and innovate
•        Grow our value as a Public Port
In addition, the Port is also underway with Vision 2050, a community-focused visioning process soliciting input from Thurston County citizens on the future of the Port over the next 30 years.  One overarching goal of the visioning effort is to provide the next Executive Director a clearer understanding of community goals and aspirations for the Port, which is nearing its 100th year of operation.