Chief Operating Officer

Port of Bellingham; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

The Port of Bellingham seeks a Chief Operations Officer to oversee day-to-day management across Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime divisions. This role reports to the Executive Director and aligns operations with the Port’s mission and community commitments.

The COO will translate strategic priorities into actionable plans, mentor division leaders, manage budgets and capital projects, and build partnerships with regulators, officials, and community stakeholders to sustain high performance and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, operations management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible senior-level leadership experience in public sector administration or port management.
• Demonstrated track record of managing complex operations, budgets, and capital projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime divisions.
• Monitor performance metrics and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Lead cross-divisional initiatives to improve coordination, service delivery, and project outcomes.
• Advise the Executive Director and Commissioners on operational matters, risks and opportunities.
• Translate strategic vision into operational plans, priorities, and measurable results.
• Oversee divisional budgets, ensuring financial accountability and adherence to Port policies.

Skills

Public sector leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Cross-divisional leadership

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Mentorship

Change management

Regulatory compliance

Operational oversight

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public administration

Master’s degree in public administration / related field

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) oversees the day-to-day management and performance of the Port’s operational divisions, including Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the COO ensures that Port operations are aligned with the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and commitment to serving the community. This role requires a balance of strategic vision, operational expertise, and collaborative leadership.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provide oversight, direction, and support to department directors and managers in Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime.
2. Monitor performance metrics and ensure divisional operations are effective, efficient, and fiscally responsible.
3. Lead cross-divisional initiatives to improve coordination, service delivery, and project outcomes.
4. Collaborate with and support the Executive Director and Commissioners on the development and execution of strategic goals and policies.
5. Collaborate with centralized service departments including Finance, Human Resources, Communications, Planning, and Economic Development.
6. Translate strategic vision into operational plans, priorities, and measurable results.
7. Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement in Port services and infrastructure.
8. Oversee divisional budgets, ensuring financial accountability and adherence to Port policies.
9. Support long-term capital planning, investment strategies, and funding approaches.
10. Ensure compliance with federal, state, tribal, and local regulations affecting Port operations.
11. Represent the Port in regional, state, and national forums, building relationships, with key stakeholders, agencies, and community partners.
12. Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and customer service within Port operations.
13. Advise the Executive Director and Commission on operational matters, risks, and opportunities.
14. Provide mentorship and guidance to division leaders, encouraging professional growth and high performance.
15. Model inclusive, ethical leadership and uphold the Port’s values in all decision-making.
16. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, operations management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible senior-level leadership experience in public sector administration, port management, transportation, or related industries.
• Demonstrated track record of managing complex operations, budgets, and capital projects.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a public sector environment.
• Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, operations management, or a related field.

LICENSES REQUIRED

• Valid Washington State driver’s license is required.
• Must be able to obtain CPR/First Aid certification after hire.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of port operations, facilities, maritime commerce, and aviation.
• Demonstrates strong self-awareness, including insight into personal strengths and growth areas, and actively seek feedback for continuous improvement.
• Approaches challenges with a positive, solutions-oriented mindset, focusing on problem-solving and constructive outcomes.
• Proven ability to lead large teams and diverse operational divisions.
• Excellent organizational, financial management, and project oversight skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance long-term vision and short-term operational demands.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with elected officials, community members, and business leaders.
• Commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community service.

LEVEL OF AUTHORITY

High level of authority responsible for departmental operations, including supervision of others, and economic development at the Port. Decision making could have a major impact on the Port, Port employees, and the public.