The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority Board has named Jeff Theobald, a veteran of the maritime industry, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Theobald, most recently the President and CEO for Ports America Outer Harbor Terminal, LLC, replaces James T. McDermott, Jr., who retired from PRPA in April. Theobald is expected to assume his new duties in August.
“After a comprehensive national search, conducted by Boyden Global Executive Search and led by Tim McNamara, head of the firm’s global transportation practice, we are delighted to welcome Jeff as our Chief Executive Officer,” said Gerard H. Sweeney, Chairman of PRPA.
Gerard added: “Jeff Theobald is a seasoned maritime industry executive with a proven track record. He has extensive expertise in terminal operations, international supply chains, strategic planning, contract negotiations, and financial control and will prove invaluable in overseeing port growth plans. He has excellent strategic vision and is joining at the right time, as so many projects and initiatives at the Port of Philadelphia are coming to fruition.”
As president and CEO for Ports America Outer Harbor, Theobald was responsible for a 200-acre container terminal facility in the San Francisco area, which included oversight of 50 management staff and over 200 union employees.
He was responsible for all management functions, including operations, finance, planning, cost improvement, labor, customer relations, health, safety, environment, and contract negotiations. He designed strategic plans for both the commercial account and capital investment sides of the business.
Theobald said: “I am delighted that the PRPA Board asked me to join the team at this very exciting time for the Port of Philadelphia. I look forward to doing everything I can to assure that the Port meets the challenges of the future and fulfills its great potential.”