Search is On for New Port Director
A global search has been launched to find a new executive director of the Port of Los Angeles. (Photo: Port of Los Angeles)
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced a global search for a new executive director of the Port of Los Angeles on Thursday.
The headhunting firm Ralph Andersen & Associates has been brought in to find a replacement for Dr. Geraldine Knatz, who retired last year after heading the port for almost eight years.
“The Port of Los Angeles is a critical economic driver of our region and plays a central role in L.A.’s reputation as a global city and leading Pacific Rim trade gateway,” Garcetti said in a statement. “We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic leader with a strong track record of success – a true collaborator and visionary who can lead the port’s growth and international trade efforts in the years ahead.”
An ad hoc search committee consisting of Harbor Commission President Vilma Martinez and Vice President David Arian will conduct interviews of candidates vying for the position as head of one of the nation’s largest and busiest ports.
“The Port operates in a fiercely competitive global economy and international trade arena,” Martinez said in a statement. “We will be searching for that uncommon executive who can embrace this dynamic and challenging environment, and help assure our continued position as the no. 1 container port in the U.S.”
Ralph Andersen & Associates has opened its search through April 14 and has invited the public to submit input through its website.
Former City Engineer Gary Lee Moore has been acting as interim executive director since Knatz left in November after suddenly announcing her retirement. Earlier that year, Garcetti had asked the heads of each city department to re-apply for their positions.
The search comes days after AltaSea, the $500 million-dollar urban marine research center coming to a 100-year-old pier in the outer harbor, announced it hired Rachel Etherington of the United Kingdom-based BLUE Marine Foundation as its chief executive officer. She will officially take the post on April 1.
