Chief Executive Officer

The Port of Longview, Washington, is the first full-service operating port on the deep-draft Columbia River shipping channel. With more than 800 acres of property equipped for marine services, storage and industrial use, Longview is an efficient link in supply chains stretching between Asia, Europe and the Americas. In operation since 1921, the Port of Longview has a proud history of service as the connection between raw materials and the industrial customers who create finished goods around the globe.
At just 66 miles from the mouth of the Columbia River at the Pacific Ocean, Longview offers direct inter-modal connections to all regional rail lines and swift connections to highways, including Interstate 5 north or south, and Interstates 84 and 90 for east and west bound cargo heading to or from the Port.Additionally, the Port of Longview is the first operating bulk/breakbulk port on the Columbia River able to utilize the full deep-draft navigation channel on a single tide, eliminating additional wait time for the next high tide.Superior transportation connections make Longview ideal for bulk, breakbulk and project shipments via the Pacific Northwest.
As CEO, you will work in partnership with the elected Port Commission to:• Execute the Port’s Strategic Business Plan• Promote job creation, infrastructure investment & economic development• Guide the Port’s long-term financial operational sustainability• Cultivate a strong organizational culture and effective leadership team• Represent the Port locally, regionally, nationally and internationallyKEY LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
• Champion a culture of clarity, accountability and cohesion across Port staff and leadership.• Drive the Port’s role as an economic development catalyst in Cowlitz County and beyond.• Build trust-based relationships with labor partners, customers, regulators, community members and government officials.• Ensure fiscal discipline and operational excellence while expanding infrastructure investments.• Promote the Port’s interest at the state, national and global level.• Implement the Port Commission’s policy direction with discipline, transparency and rigor.WHO YOU ARE: A TEAM PLAYER AND COACH
We’re seeking a leader who embodies the core characteristics of a Team Player and Coach:*You foster a culture of trust and collaboration. You prioritize team success over personal credit and lead with transparency, integrity, and a deep appreciation for different perspectives.*You are energized by challenge. You are proactive, persistent, and driven to advance the Port’s strategic vision while embracing continuous improvement.*You are emotionally intelligent and politically astute. You build coalitions, navigate complex relationships, and make sound decisions that balance stakeholder needs.
This position requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, public administration, logistics, international trade, or a similar area of study, plus ten (10) years of senior leadership experience, preferably at a port, or other public-sector, transportation, infrastructure, or economic development environments. A combination of education and experience will be considered. Proven success working directly with elected officials, labor unions, and diverse community and industry stakeholders. Demonstrated strength in operations, strategic planning, and team leadership is preferred.The ideal candidate must possess the following:
• Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, techniques and standards in the areas of international trade, port operations and shipping regulations.• Strong leadership and management skills including the ability to develop and administer Port policies and procedures, cultivate a positive work environment and effectively manage and develop talent within the organization.• Strong interpersonal and public speaking skills to effectively communicate (written and verbally) with customers, the public, media, politicians and employees in a professional and positive manner.• Strong communications skills to be advocate for and advance the Port’s interests before governmental agencies, customers and the public.
Annual salary range (as of January 1, 2025): $211,925 – $339,080*Beginning salary will be dependent upon qualifications and experience. New hires typically start at 85-90% of the range midpoint.For more information about the Port, visit our website at www.portoflongview.com. First review of applications will be April 28th.