Submitted by Port of Olympia
The Port of Olympia Commission is proud to announce the appointment of Sam Gibboney as its new Executive Director. Gibboney brings years of executive experience in community development, public works and environmental leadership to her new role. Most recently, Gibboney was Executive Director of the Port of Port Townsend where she provided strategic and operational management, of an 18-acre ship yard, three marinas, an international general aviation airport and a campus of historical buildings.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to lead an organization with such significant economic impact,” said Sam Gibboney. “I look forward to joining the Port of Olympia team and getting to know the Thurston County community.”
Gibboney joins the organization at a critical time in the comprehensive planning process. The Port adopted a Strategic Plan in 2017. Through the extensive planning and discussion, the Port Commission reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a change agent and leader in the following areas; creating economic opportunities, acting as an environmental steward, and creating and maintaining community assets. Gibboney will be expected to move the Port toward the ultimate goal: A More Resilient Thurston County. In addition, as the Port approaches its 100 year anniversary, the Port is currently underway with Vision 2050. The Executive Director will be instrumental in moving this, community focused visioning process soliciting input from citizens of Thurston County on the future of the Port in the next 30 years, forward.
“The Commission strived for a great public servant to lead our organization with transparency and strong values,” said Commission President E.J. Zita. “We are thrilled to have Sam’s experience and leadership as we progress and change.”
The Commission selected Gibboney following an extensive recruitment effort that included outreach to the community via an on-line survey, a public and an employee forum. Candidates from around the region and across the country were reviewed as part of the selection process.
Gibboney, 57, will start work on January 22, 2019. She will be paid $175,000 a year.
