The Port of Bellingham has hired the first woman to serve as executive director in its 106-year history.
Port of Bellingham commissioners unanimously approved Tiffany DeSimone, who had served as interim director since June, to the position during their Tuesday meeting.
DeSimone previously was director of maritime, where she oversaw the port’s harbors, shipping terminal, maritime center and security. She spent over a decade of her career climbing the port’s ranks.
“As Executive Director, my role is to carry out the Commission’s vision with integrity, transparency, and a focus on results,” DeSimone wrote in a statement.
Port commissioner Carly James said during the Tuesday meeting that DeSimone is the first woman hired as executive director since the port was established in 1920. James, who was elected last November, serves as the second female commissioner.
DeSimone takes on the role as the port focuses on large infrastructure projects at Blaine Harbor, the Bellingham Shipping terminal and the Bellingham International Airport.
DeSimone’s employment agreement shows she will receive a $237,700 salary, along with a $600 monthly car allowance.
Commissioners appointed DeSimone to the acting director role last June after the abrupt firing of former director Rob Fix. The board didn’t elaborate on their decision to the public, only saying the port was looking for “new opportunities” and a “new direction.”
The port hired CPS HR Consulting to find candidates last September and advertised the position in late January. DeSimone was selected from nearly 100 applicants, according to the port.
The port’s three commissioners unanimously voted to extend an employment offer to DeSimone during their April 28 meeting. DeSimone will report to the commission, which will expand to five commissioners after the November general election.
