UPDATE: Port of Seattle’s new executive director is retired Rear Adm. Stephen Metruck

UPDATED 1:51 PM: Just approved as the new Port of Seattle executive director, during today’s ongoing Port Commission meeting (here’s the live stream): Retired Rear Admiral Stephen P. Metruck. He retired from the U.S. Coast Guard last year after 34 years. His background includes three years as the USCG’s captain of Sector Seattle, 2005-2008. The executive director position is the top appointed leadership position at the Port, renamed after the departure of former CEO Ted Fick. The commission vote was unanimous.

ADDED 1:58 PM: Metruck will start work February 1st and be paid $350,000 a year, according to the official port news release we’ve just obtained:

The Port of Seattle Commission is proud to announce the appointment of retired U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Stephen P. Metruck as its new Executive Director. Metruck brings 34 years of executive experience in maritime, security and financial leadership to his new role. Most recently, Metruck was Commander of the Mid-Atlantic Region, overseeing 3,600 military and civilian personnel, and before that, responsibility for planning and execution of the $10 billion U.S. Coast Guard budget.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to lead an organization with such significant economic impact for the region,” said Rear Admiral Stephen Metruck. “Having served here before, I also know there is no better place in the country to live and work. I’m looking forward to be back.”

Metruck also served as Commander of Sector Puget Sound from 2005 to 2008. In this capacity, Metruck was responsible for enforcing complex national and international safety, security and environmental laws. He oversaw the creation of the nationally recognized Puget Sound Joint Harbor Operations Center (JHOC), which brings numerous government jurisdictions and stakeholders under a unified command in the event of a natural disaster or other major incident in response to which the Port will likely play a key role.

As a member of the Coast Guard Academy Board of Trustees, Metruck oversaw increased diversity for incoming Academy Classes. He also served on a task force developing policies preventing and responding to sexual assault in the Coast Guard.

Priorities for the Executive Director will include effective leadership of the organization as it modernizes and expands Sea-Tac International Airport to meet rapidly growing demand, oversee major developments at Fishermen’s Terminal in support of the North Pacific Fishing Fleet, worth billions in economic activity, manages the Port’s real estate assets to maximize economic opportunities for local communities, and further develops a thriving cruise business that handles over one-million revenue passengers a year. The Port is also expanding its leadership in environmental stewardship and workforce development.

“First and foremost, we sought a great public servant to lead our outstanding organization with transparency and strong values. Admiral Metruck brings an exemplary record of service and achievement to the Port of Seattle,” said Commission Vice President Courtney Gregoire. “We are thrilled to have his experience and leadership at a time of great growth and change. The Port is committed to expanding diversity and ensuring equality as we create new economic opportunities throughout the community.”

“I have firsthand experience with Admiral Metruck’s integrity, leadership, and commitment to environmental stewardship in his capacity as Commander of Sector Puget Sound,” said Commissioner Fred Felleman, who co-chaired the Executive Director search committee with Commissioner Gregoire. “I’m excited to welcome him aboard to take the helm at the Port and I’m confident he will steer us on a course to an environmentally responsible and inclusive economy.”

The Commission selected Metruck following an extensive recruitment effort that included outreach to community leaders and stakeholders, five employee forums and an innovative on-line survey. Candidates from around the region and across the country were reviewed as part of the selection process.

Metruck, 57, will start work on February 1, 2018. He will be paid $350,000 a year.

5 Replies to "UPDATE: Port of Seattle's new executive director is retired Rear Adm. Stephen Metruck"

  • Your Ad Here December 19, 2017 (4:31 pm)

    He was obviously born for this job with that awesome name.

    • WSB December 19, 2017 (4:49 pm)

      Although it may look like me-truck, everyone who spoke at the Port meeting pronounced it a lot like “metric.”

  • dsa December 19, 2017 (4:54 pm)

    $350,000 a year salary is more than twice the governor’s:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Governors_of_Washington

    • WS Guy December 19, 2017 (9:31 pm)

      Plus his Coast Guard pension.  Nice!

  • Old friend December 19, 2017 (8:27 pm)

    Yeah that salary is ridiculous for a public employee.. almost twice what the Seattle mayor makes!! Crazy.. 

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