Sewell Stepping Down as Head of Seaport

Port will launch search for successor

Steve Sewell, Managing Director of the Seaport Division of the Port of Seattle for the past eight years, has announced he will leave the Port to pursue new challenges.

During his tenure, Sewell led the Seaport Division through a period of growth in containerized shipping, the development of major marine terminal facilities and diversification into the passenger cruise business.

"Steve helped the Port navigate a number of challenging issues," said Port CEO M.R. Dinsmore. "He played a key role in the creation of Harbor Development Strategy 21, a strategic vision for the harbor created with the help of community volunteers, so Steve's work will help guide the Port's direction for many years to come.

"His achievements also include the redevelopment of Terminals 5 and 18, and the Port's emergence as a center for passenger cruises to Canada and Alaska," Dinsmore added.

In addition, Sewell played an important role in the revitalization of the Central Waterfront, which includes the Pier 66 Cruise Terminal, Bell Harbor Marina, Bell Harbor International Conference Center and the World Trade Center Seattle.

Sewell joined the Port in 1986, serving as General Counsel and later as Corporate Secretary. He was promoted to Senior Director of the Administrative Services Division in 1991. In 1994 Sewell was appointed Director of the Seaport Division.

The Port will conduct a nationwide search for Sewell's successor, according to Dinsmore.