Port of Seattle begins search for new CEO

The Port of Seattle Commission will hire a new chief executive officer by the end of this year and is seeking an executive search firm to help in the recruitment.

"The Port of Seattle CEO is one of the most important leadership positions in the Pacific Northwest," said Commission President Patricia Davis. "The individual selected for this position will have significant influence on the region's economic health and on our ongoing position as a major leader in worldwide trade and commerce."

The CEO of the Port is responsible for managing an annual operating and construction budget of more than $1 billion, and a staff of about 1,600 employees. The CEO reports to a five-member board of independently elected Commissioners.

M.R. Dinsmore, CEO for the past 15 years, recently announced plans to step down from the post early next year.

The Port of Seattle is a very diverse operation. It was the fastest growing container port in North America the past two years, hosts a growing cruise industry, and manages fishing terminals, recreational marinas and a real estate portfolio. The Port also owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the 16th busiest passenger airport in the United States.

Firms interested in submitting their qualifications should contact Margaret Norton-Arnold at 206/269-0229, or margaret@na-company.com. Norton-Arnold & Company is administering this project on behalf of the Seattle Port Commission. Submittals are due by 5:00 p.m., Thursday Sept. 7, 2006.