Executive Director

On behalf of our client, The Erie Western-PA Port Authority (Port Authority), Decision Associates is actively recruiting for the role of Executive Director. The Port Authority is seeking an Executive Director who will work closely with the staff and Board of Directors to help achieve its mission of promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on Presque Isle Bay and adjacent waterways. The authority owns over 470 acres of bayfront property along Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie as well as over 535k feet of commercial rental space, a marina, and a recreational camping facility.The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of the Port Authority. They are responsible for implementing goals, policies, and budgets, as well as providing leadership and strategic direction to the staff, and securing resources to ensure the accomplishment of the Port Authority’s mission. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall management and financial results of all Port Authority activities and is the face of the organization within the local community as well as with state and federal stakeholders, partners, and funding sources.To review the Port Authority’s Master Plan, click here.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Carry out the mission of the Port Authority at the direction of and in conjunction with the Board.
• Achieve business development, financial, operational, organizational, and public affairs strategies and goals in accordance with the Port Authority strategic Master Plan.
• Oversee and be responsible for the Port Authority's real estate operations, including lease negotiations, tenant compliance with lease terms, and financial performance.
• Direct and oversee the Port’s finances, including revenue, expenses, and debt structure.
• Prepare and recommend annual budgets to the Board, including changes in rates/fee schedules for Port programs and properties
• Conduct financial analysis and forecasting
• Create and execute a grant funding plan as authorized by the Board to secure funding for Port projects.
• Develop key metrics to monitor the progress of Port activities and provide regular reports to the Board.
• Create and maintain effective communication and relationships with key stakeholders including the Board, government officials, community leaders, tenants, funding sources, media, and employees, as well as other economic development partners.
• Represent the Port at community and neighborhood meetings and gatherings related to the projects, mission, goals, and objectives of the organization.
• Manage state and federal government affairs contracts and ensure Port priorities are being advanced.
• Mentor, coach, and guide the Port staff, including the creation of a performance and merit budget
• Review and modify staffing and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency
• Prepare agendas and supporting materials for Port Authority Board meetings and conduct follow up after the meeting, ensuring minutes are sent out and posted online in a timely manner
• Schedule Board sub-committee meetings on a regular and as-needed basis.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, technical discipline or related field is required. 
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience as a President, Executive Director, or key executive leader of an organization, preferably an association or an authority. 
• Ability to quickly analyze and resolve complex issues, understanding stakeholder interests and balance to achieve Port Authority goals.
• Polished verbal communication skills, including interpersonal, presentation, writing and public speaking skills. Ability to communicate complex subject matter, and to advocate effectively.
• High level of financial acumen and a strong understanding of the financials of an organization, accounting standards, controls, and best practices.
• Ability to think creatively, and to bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to the Port’s leadership.
• Ability to think strategically andenvision future possibilities and work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve the strategies.
• Strong collaborator with a proven record of building meaningful partnerships with staff, members, board of directors and strategic partners.
• Background in negotiations with the ability to create “win-win” opportunities.
• An inspirational leader, with a history of leading a staff and managing their professional growth and development.

Benefits

The role offers an attractive base salary, incentive, and a full benefits package.

The Erie-Western PA Port Authority is an equal opportunity employer.