The following is the text of a news release from the Port of Seattle:
(SEATTLE) (Feb. 24) — Port of Seattle CEO Ted J. Fick presented to the commission a blueprint for his vision for leading the organization. The announced realignment aims to grow operations and increase jobs throughout the region and state by promoting economic development, and advancing the port’s Century Agenda. Port activity in the region is responsible for supporting more than 200,000 jobs.
“During my first five months on the job I’ve recognized that we have many opportunities to grow our already significant impact on the region’s economy, to increase revenue, and to boost our operational excellence and effectiveness,” said Fick. “We need to continue our focus on business and job growth.”
Organizational changes include the creation of an Office for Strategic Initiatives that will provide a launch pad for good ideas and process improvements, including the incorporation of LEAN/Continuous Process Improvement. Also new will be an Economic Development Office which will encompass a number of existing functions such as Real Estate, Office of Social Responsibility, Tourism Development, and a new small business "incubator" which will become a primary economic growth driver for the port.
With marine cargo business proposed to fall under the new Seaport Alliance, a new Maritime Division will include all remaining water-borne businesses — cruise, fishing, and recreational boating. There will be an increased number of executive staff reporting directly to the CEO, including labor relations. The Airport Division will remain structured as is.
“By flattening the organization, it will give me a more focused opportunity to make direct impact on the organization, such as labor relations and economic development,” said Fick. “This is just the first phase of a reorganization that will continue for a couple of years as we grow the business.”
About the Port of Seattle
Founded in 1911, the port owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, four container cargo terminals, two cruise ship terminals, one grain terminal, a public cargo terminal, four public marinas, and manages a number of real estate assets for financial return and economic advantage. The port’s operations currently help create nearly 200,000 jobs and $7 billion in wages throughout the region. Over the next 25 years, the port’s Century Agenda seeks to create an additional 100,000 jobs through economic growth while becoming the nation’s leading green and energy-efficient port. Learn more at www.portseattle.org.
