Port of Seattle Hires Economic Development Director

Port of Seattle CEO Ted J. Fick has hired David McFadden as a member of the port’s executive team, effective July 21.

 

McFadden joins the Port of Seattle as the Managing Director of the Economic Development Division, responsible for a portfolio that includes recruiting and retaining businesses especially in aviation, manufacturing and maritime sectors. He is also tasked with driving economic development activities at the port to maximize opportunities while making Seattle a gateway for international commerce.

 

“David brings over 20 years of experience in economic development and business growth to this organization,” said Fick. “His results-oriented background makes him uniquely qualified to fill this new role at the Port of Seattle, where we aim to bring more family-wage jobs to the region and state of Washington.”

 

As President and CEO of the Yakima County Development Association since 1997, McFadden was responsible for business and industry retention and expansion, along with new business recruitment. Companies that received support from the association have invested over $400 million in new facilities and created over 2,000 new jobs since 2002.

 

McFadden holds a Master of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Science degree with Honors in Social Assessment and Policy, both from Western Washington University. He is also an Economic Development Finance Professional and Certified Economic Developer.