The Port of Vancouver USA Board of Commissioners today voted 2-1 to hire interim CEO Julianna Marler as the port’s permanent CEO/Executive Director.
Marler, who was appointed interim CEO by the board in May 2016, was one of three finalists for the position. The other two were Edward Galligan, current Executive Director of the Port of Olympia, and Arthur Scheunemann, former President and CEO of the Economic Development Council of Seattle and King County.
“We had three highly qualified candidates, and that made this a hard decision,” said commission President Brian Wolfe. “I believe Julianna is best suited to take us forward and realize the vision this port has for connecting with the community and bringing economic benefit to our region.”
“This was a rigorous process,” said commission Vice President Eric LaBrant. “Julianna was stacked up against the best of the industry and she’s the most qualified candidate. I think this positions us well for moving forward with the vision this port has for its future.”
Commission Secretary Jerry Oliver cast the dissenting vote, but said he would support the CEO selected by the commission.
“I’m excited for what lies ahead and look forward to working with Ms. Marler to realize the opportunities that will mean so much to this port and the community,” said Commissioner Oliver.
“I deeply appreciate the commission’s support and the rigorous process they went through to select me as CEO,” said Marler. “The Port of Vancouver plays a significant role in building a strong, healthy and vibrant region, and I look forward leading the port into a thriving future.”
The Board of Commissioners directed port Director of Human Resources Jonathan Eder to negotiate terms of employment, including salary, benefits and a start date, which must be approved by the commission. The port expects to present this as an action item at the next regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners meeting on Feb. 14.
