Career Center

Executive Director

Port of Olympia

Olympia, Washington

Salary:  $175,000 - $225,000

The Port of Olympia, located in Olympia, Washington, serves the Thurston County community by promoting trade, supporting family-wage jobs, and improving the environment. Olympia is the state capital and the Thurston County seat. Thurston County offers a vibrant and diverse community that combines urban amenities with breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between the majestic Olympic Mountains and the picturesque Puget Sound, this region provides an unparalleled quality of life. Residents enjoy a thriving arts and cultural scene, a strong sense of community, and a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, boating, and exploring the stunning nearby national parks. The Port of Olympia serves as a gateway for international trade and a hub for local businesses, recreation, and tourism, making it a key driver of economic development in the region.

Established in 1922, the Port of Olympia has a proud history in Thurston County and, today, more than 5,000 jobs and nearly $715.5 million in economic activity in the county depend on the Port. The Port is currently governed by three elected commissioners, however, the county recently approved a proposition to increase the number of commissioners from three to five by electing an additional two in the 2023 general election. The commissioners appoint the Port’s Executive Director, who is responsible for the ongoing management of the Port’s enterprises and facilities. The Port of Olympia operates with 49 FTEs, utilizing 2023 budgeted operating revenues of $15,889,591 and a capital budget of $2,571,576. The Port’s departments and business units include Operations (Marine Terminal, Airport, Swantown Marina and Boatworks, and Maintenance), Economic Development and Real Estate, Strategic Initiatives and Commission Relations, which includes Communications, Marketing and Government Affairs, Environmental Planning and Programs, Human Resources and Administrative Services, and Finance and Contracting.

Reporting to the five-member Commission, the Executive Director serves as the Chief Executive of the Port of Olympia and is responsible for all activities of the Port. This person will provide strategic direction and promote the mission, vision, values and strategic goals of the Port that are defined through consensus with the Commission.

A bachelor’s degree and ten (10) years or more of progressively responsible management experience directing operational activities, public policy, research or marketing, economic development, finance and/or other activities relevant to municipal or Port operations, or fifteen (15) years of experience in lieu of education is required. Preferred experience includes: eight (8) or more years of experience managing large-scale budgets. Experience working with a tribal government, board, council or commission is desirable. Experience advancing environmental initiatives.

For a complete position profile, full job description, and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on "Open Recruitments". For questions, call 206-368-0050. The Port of Olympia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First review of applications will be: December 10, 2023. (This position is open until filled.)