Port commissioners select Alexandra Smith as new executive director

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The Port of Olympia Commission chose Alexandra Smith as the port's new executive director, a news release from the port announced yesterday.

Commissioners held an executive session yesterday to conduct the second round of interviews for the two final candidates for the position, with the other candidate being Mike Reid, the economic development director of Olympia.

“Alex’s selection comes at a crucial time for the Port of Olympia, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities in fulfilling the Port’s mission. Her forward-thinking approach, combined with her commitment to sustainability and fostering economic development, will be instrumental in positioning the port as a leader in the region,” the news release stated.

Smith will officially start in her new role once the commission negotiates and approves her contract. The salary for the job ranges from $175,000 to $225,000, according to the job description.

The upcoming executive director previously worked at the Port of Olympia from 2012 to 2016 as the director of environmental programs.

Smith is currently the deputy supervisor for forest resilience, regulation, and aquatic resources at the Washington Department of Natural Resources, a position she has held since 2020.

She was also the nuclear waste program manager for the Department of Ecology from 2016 to 2020.

“I look forward to collaborating with the dedicated staff, commissioners, and stakeholders to enhance the port’s operations and economic development while also prioritizing environmental stewardship and community engagement. Together, we will work towards the port’s continued success and contribute to the economic vitality of our region,” Smith stated in the news release.

Smith will replace former executive director Sam Gibboney, who signed a separation agreement with the port on September 19 last year.

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  • Boatyarddog

    Great Choice Commissioners!

    Perhaps with this New and Very Wise Leadership, our Port can truly evaluate its efficiency, and commitment to being True Environmental Stewards.

    There is a Heck of alot to do in the Responsibility To The Public Realm.

    There are still leftover Bad feelings and mistrust from S.G.

    And her henchmen.

    Let's Wash her out and welcome a New Future.

    What can the Port become to serve The Community's Needs!

    How about focusing on How much Weyerhaeuser Costs the people and our Lands.

    Raise the Responsibilities of this For profit business to Support itself or Move on.

    We Should NOT shoulder the Costs to keep Longshore here.

    It is Not The Community's Job to support a section of the business sector that gives nothing but keeping a few families here.

    This is not Fair to the Community at large.

    Wednesday, February 14 Report this

  • Boatyarddog

    And Congratulations to our New Director A. Smith.

    We are looking to you to come thru to help with the Direction and Focus needed to make this Port help the community and enrich the lives of 10s of thousands!

    Together, WE CAN DO THIS!!

    Wednesday, February 14 Report this