PORT TAMPA BAY - Key Persons

Job Titles:

• Chief Operating Officer

Brian Giuliani is Chief Operating Officer for Port Tampa Bay. Brian is responsible for overseeing all cargo & cruise operations throughout the port and provides operational support to our team to help promote and grow the port business. Brian works closely with the port's terminal operating partners and the various regulatory & protective agencies to ensure all port operations are done efficiently, safely, in accordance with government regulations, and meeting customer requirements. Mr. Giuliani has over 25 years of experience in maritime port operations, including terminal, vessel, and warehouse operations. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay in July, 2019, Brian served as Director of North American Ports for Del Monte Fresh Produce. While working with Del Monte, he held various management positions and made numerous contributions towards improving Del Monte's supply chain operations, including his leadership role in transitioning their Northeast distribution network from a palletized breakbulk transportation model to a fully containerized model and creating the foundation for a transformation throughout North America. Brian is a graduate of Rutgers University. He is President of Tampa Bay International Terminals and currently serves on all port committees such as Tampa Bay Harbor Safety & Security Committee (TBHSSC), Tampa Cooperative Safety & Security Committee (TCSS), Port Heavy Weather Advisory Group (PHWAG), Vessel Movement Committee (VMC), and the Greater Tampa Bay Marine Advisory Council PORTS.

Job Titles:

• Director of Information Technology

Brian Sardino joined the Port in July of 2019 as the Director of Information Technology. Brian brings more than 26 years of experience with over 19 of them in an Information Technology Leadership capacity. Mr. Sardino is a hands-on technology leader and innovator with extensive experience in the Financial Services, Insurance, and Legal Industries. His focus has always been heading up IT Strategy, Technology Innovation, and Strategic Business Acquisitions. He has a proven ability to build, challenge and motivate teams to maximize productivity. Prior to joining the Port, Mr. Sardino served as the SVP/CIO for HomeBanc in Tampa, FL. There he was responsible for the bank's overall Technology Infrastructure and Systems Architecture. He served as chairman of the Technology Steering Committee as well as the bank's Chief Information Security Officer. Mr. Sardino is a graduate of Northwood University and holds numerous Microsoft and Cisco certifications.

Job Titles:

• Chairman
• CEO of Harrod Properties, Inc

Chad W. Harrod is the CEO of Harrod Properties, Inc. and its affiliated companies. Mr. Harrod joined the company in 2003 after working in the investment banking division of JP Morgan Chase in both Atlanta and New York City. In 2007, Mr. Harrod formed Harrod Healthcare Real Estate (HHRE) to focus on the growing need for Class-A medical developments. HHRE specializes in developing healthcare properties that allow physicians and healthcare systems to deliver quality patient care in the most efficient manner possible. Collectively, the Harrod companies have developed over 17 million square feet of office, industrial and medical properties in Florida, Texas, Tennessee and the Carolinas. As CEO, Mr. Harrod focuses on corporate advancement, strategic planning, and client relations. Mr. Harrod is a member of the Florida Council of 100 and also serves as a Director for Dex Imaging, Inc., Stratifi Health, CoLabs, LLC, MD Healthcare Partners, and the Florida Chapter of The Young Presidents Organization. Mr. Harrod's interests are not limited to only the corporate world. He is also committed to our community and serves on the board of directors of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Academy Prep Center of Tampa, St. Mary's Episcopal Day School, and the First Tee of Tampa Bay. A Tampa native, Mr. Harrod is passionate about the successful growth of our Port and the tremendous impact is has on the Tampa Bay area and surrounding MSA's. Mr. Harrod graduated from Berkeley Preparatory School in Tampa and The University of Texas at Austin where he earned his bachelor's degree in Economics and Business. Mr. Harrod lives in South Tampa with his wife, Sarah, and their two boys. Mr. Harrod's interests include coaching his boys, golf, hunting, and fishing. Mr. Harrod occupies Tampa Port Authority Board of Commissioners' Seat #1, which is appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida.

Job Titles:

• Counsel
• Principal

Charles E. Klug is the Principal Counsel for Port Tampa Bay; Florida's largest and most cargo-diverse seaport. Mr. Klug is currently responsible for advising the Board of Commissioners and the President & CEO and as well as overseeing the Port Strategic and Master Plan. In past, he has served as Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel for Port Tampa Bay since 2004 and served as Deputy Port Director for Administration, from 2008 to 2013. In addition, he recently served as Interim Port Director from September through December of 2012 during Port Tampa Bay's search for a new Port Director and CEO. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay, Mr. Klug was a partner with the law firm of Gray Robinson, P.A., where he concentrated his practice in the areas of commercial real estate, local government, land use and environmental law. Mr. Klug received a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Florida, College of Business in 1983 (with Honors) and a J.D. from the University of Florida, College of Law in 1986. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1986 and has been certified by the Florida Bar as specialist in Real Estate Law since 1993 and as a specialist in City, County and Local Government Law since 1998. He is an "AV" rated lawyer by Martindale-Hubbell and currently serves on the Florida Bar's Real Estate Certification Committee. Mr. Klug was recognized as the "Top Corporate Counsel for Government and Non-profits" by the Tampa Bay Business Journal in 2014 based on leadership, ethical standards and exemplary professional skills.

Job Titles:

• Director of Environmental Affairs

Chris Cooley is Director of Environmental Affairs for Port Tampa Bay. In this position, he is responsible for managing and directing the Port's environmental compliance program, marine construction permitting program, clean-up and remediation activities, while overseeing environmental site assessments and Port expansion projects, and assisting Port tenants with environmental matters. He works closely with federal, state, and local agency partners on regional environmental and emergency planning issues, as well as ongoing environmental and protected wildlife species projects. Mr. Cooley represents the Port on various committees such as the Florida Ports Council Seaport Environmental Managers Committee, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council's Agency on Bay Management, Tampa Bay Local Emergency Planning Committee, and the Interagency Migratory Bird Protection Committee. He is a member of the Florida Association of Environmental Professionals, Florida Brownfields Association, and serves on the Management Board of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program and the Board of Trustees for Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. Mr. Cooley is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where he studied Environmental Science and Policy. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay, he managed several wetland permitting and assessment programs at the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County. His experience and expertise include environmental site assessments, wetland impacts and mitigation, project management, rule writing and analysis, conflict resolution, court certified expert witness, development and land use, and interagency coordination.

Job Titles:

• Chief Financial Officer

David M. Delac is the Chief Financial Officer of Port Tampa Bay. He manages the day-to-day administration of Port Tampa Bay's Finance Department, which includes the accounting functions, all financial reporting in accordance with the general accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Government Accounting Standards Boards (GASB). He manages the annual operating and capital budgets, the internal and external audit oversight and coordination, long and short term debt issuance and investment portfolios, the administration of Port Tampa Bay's internal controls, grant funds, financial policies and procedures, annual budget preparation, and the risk management and procurement programs. Previously, Mr. Delac held the Chief Financial Officer/Budget Officer position in Galveston County, Texas. Mr. Delac has approximately twenty-five years of experience in public and private finance and accounting. Mr. Delac has a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science from Auburn University; a Master's in Public Administration (MPA) from Florida State University, and a Master's in Christian Leadership (MCLED) from Liberty University.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Real Estate

Ed Washington joined Port Tampa Bay in August 2023 as Vice President of Real Estate. Washington has over 25 years of real estate development, leasing, and property management experience. As Liberty Property Trust's City Manager, he had oversight of the 400 million real estate portfolio, a $8.5 billion REIT. After Liberty, Washington was Vice President of Gate Petroleum's Real Estate Division where he was asset manager of the company's largest income producing assets. Upon the disposition of these assets, he formed his own company WW Partners, LLC where he pursued build-to-suit opportunities and was heavily involved in tenant representation in both the industrial and office sectors. Additionally, Washington was one of the original six partners and investors in Exeter Property Group that raised $300 million for the first Exeter Industrial Value Fund, L.P., and was a member os Exeter's investment committee. As Vice President of Real Estate for Port Tampa Bay, Washington will be responsible for planning and organization of the real estate department's functions, as well as the development and implementation of its Strategic Plan. The Real Estate Strategic Plan is a key component of Port Tampa Bay's overall Strategic and Master Plans. The position oversees the Environmental Department's responsibilities and staff. The position is a key member of senior management and reports to Port Tampa Bay's Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer. Washington received a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from the University of North Florida, majoring in accounting. He has been a member of the Rotary International for over 20 years, is past president, present and long-standing Board member, and was selected as Rotarian of the Year 2018-2019 by his local club. Washington is a past Board member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Jacksonville, FL region and past Board member of The Episcopal Diocese of North Florida Architectural and Development Committee. His is a proud fifth-generation Floridian, born in St. Petersburg and a direct descendent of Odet Phillipe, one of the pioneers of the Tampa Bay region and namesake of Phillippe Park in Safety Harbor, FL.

Job Titles:

• President

Job Titles:

• Director of Business Development - Latin America

Gonzalo Padron has more than 20 years of sales and business development experience within the maritime transportation industry. His responsibilities include Port Tampa Bay's outreach and liaison with beneficial cargo owners and ocean carriers, with a particular focus on trade with Latin America. Gonzalo began his career working for ocean carriers Tecmarine Lines and Seaboard Marine, traveling the Caribbean and Latin America extensively. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay, he was employed by DHL Global Forwarding as Manager of Strategic Accounts, Datamyne as Business Development Manager - Maritime, and PIERS as Maritime Regional Manager. Gonzalo is a graduate of Barry University. Fluently bi-lingual English/Spanish, he has a strong background in international trade data analysis and account management. Gonzalo is active in numerous transportation professional organizations.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Business Development
• President of the CSCMP Central Florida Roundtable
• Vice President of Business Development for Port Tampa Bay and Is Responsible

Greg Lovelace is Vice President of Business Development for Port Tampa Bay and is responsible for new business development for the Port of Tampa. He is also responsible for managing the port tariff, maintaining port statistics and trade data and is involved with strategic planning for the Authority. Mr. Lovelace began his career with the Port Authority in March of 1996. He received a BS Degree in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina in 1985 and a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of New Orleans in 1994. Prior to his employment with the Port Authority, he was employed for ten years with Evergreen, one of the largest container shipping lines in the world. Greg serves on the Executive Committee of the Gulf Seaports Marine Terminal Conference, an association of U.S. Gulf ports authorized to discuss, fix and regulate rates, and previously served as their Chairman. Greg also serves as the President of the CSCMP Central Florida Roundtable and previously served on the Board in various capacities.

Job Titles:

• Vice Chairman

Hung T. Mai, PE, is president of H.T. Mai Inc. and has more than 42 years' experience in the civil engineering field and over 38 years of experience in Florida encompassing land/site development, land planning, comprehensive plan development/amendment, development regional impact study, master development plan, infrastructure planning (roadway, stormwater, water supply, wastewater and solid waste), water resources planning and design, location hydraulic reports, bridge hydraulic and scour analysis reports, roadway drainage design, and watershed management. His experience includes comprehensive analysis of all aspects of land development and planning, comprehensive environmental analysis, and extensive experience in environmental and jurisdictional surveys, feasibility/impact studies and wetland mitigation planning for a variety of projects throughout the State of Florida. Mr. Mai's experience with environmental permitting and regulatory agencies has included involvement with various water management districts, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Environmental Protection, Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, and numerous local regulatory agencies. Mr. Mai served as a member of the Hillsborough River Basin Board of the SWFWMD (1999-2007), appointed by Governor Bush; and also a member of the Technical Advisory Committee for Hillsborough River Board. Mr. Mai is currently a member of the Environmental Resource Permitting Advisory Committee. Mr. Mai was appointed by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners as a member of the Charter Review Board (2005-2006), member of City-County Planning Commission (2007-2011), and member of the Metropolitan Planning Organization (2008-2009). Mr. Mai has extensive experience in facilitating workshops, public information meetings, public survey and public campaign. Mr. Mai was also appointed by Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners as a member of the Hillsborough County Diversity Advisory Council in 2013. Mr. Mai served as the Chairman of the Diversity Advisory Council from 2013-2016. Mr. Mai was the recipient of the 2016 Florida State Fair Wall of Fame for Asian-Pacific American Recognition. Mr. Mai served as President of the American Society of Civil Engineers - West Coast Branch (1994-1995) and remained in the ASCE-WCB Board of Directors from 1992-1999. Mr. Mai is an active member of this organization as an assistant chair for Program and Infrastructure Evaluation and Rating Committee. Mr. Mai received a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the National Institute of Technology, University of Saigon, in 1973, and is a member of the Tampa Aviation Association. Mr. Hung T. Mai, P.E. occupies Tampa Port Authority Board of Commissioners Seat #2, which is appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida.

Job Titles:

• Director of Operations

Jim Forsyth began his career at Port Tampa Bay in 2013 as the Wharfinger but was soon promoted to Operations Manager and subsequently Director of Operations. This swift career development was due to his intense hands on management style and creating a team ambiance among his staff. Jim brings over 25 years of maritime operational experience including terminal aerations as well as stevedoring and business management to the port. He has worked with a diverse group of worldwide shipping companies such as Hoegh Autoliners, Suzuki Del Caribe, Sea Star Line, Tecmarine Lines NMCC, International Shipping Co., CSAV, and Mitsui OSK Bulk Shipping before joining the port.

Jane Castor is a proud Seminole Heights resident where she raised her two sons, Sergei and Seely.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Human Resources
• Member of the National and Local Tampa Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management

Joeanne Toledo currently serves as the Vice President of Human Resources for Port Tampa Bay. With over 15 years of Human Resources experience, she received her Bachelor of Business Administration and Executive Master of Human Resource Management from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. She received her Professional of Human Resources (PHR) certification shortly after graduation. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay, she was the head of Human Resources for a national Professional Employer Organization (PEO) specializing in HR services for small to mid-size businesses. Prior to moving to Tampa, she resided in Hawai'i where she started up and ran a Human Resources department for one of Hawai'i's top five litigation and employment law firms. In addition, she held Co-Chair positions for the programs and college relations committees for the O'ahu Educational Foundation's Hawai'i Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. Ms. Toledo is an active member of the national and local Tampa chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Her current areas of responsibility and expertise include benefits, compensation, recruitment, employment law, employee relations, succession planning, HRIS programs, educational and career development, and HR technology programs.

Job Titles:

• Director of Security & Safety Compliance

Jorge Torres joined Port Tampa Bay in 2015. He serves as Director of Security, and as the Port Authority's designated Facility Security Officer (FSO). Jorge is responsible for ensuring the Port's compliance with all maritime security regulatory requirements, manages the port security grant program, he is the Customs Trade Partnership against Terrorism program manager, and directs the day-to-day operation of the security department. Jorge served 14 years on active duty with the US Coast Guard, transitioning to the reserve component in 2009. Jorge retired in 2019 as a Senior Chief, having served a total of 24 years. Prior to joining PTB, he was a Facility Security Manager and designated Facility Security Officer at the Port of Houston Authority. Jorge is a graduate of American Military University, earning a Bachelor's degree in Security Management, and a Master's Degree in Homeland Security. Jorge has completed extensive training provided by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, satisfying the requirements for Infrastructure Protection, and is board certified as a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) by the American Society for Industrial Security International (ASIS). Jorge is an alumni of Leadership Tampa Bay class of 2018, a member of the American Association of Port Authorities Security Committee (AAPA), executive board member of the Tampa/Saint Petersburg Area Maritime Security Committee (AMSC), as well as a member of the national and local chapter of the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS). In 2021, Jorge was elected to serve as a board member on the Propeller Club of Tampa executive board.

Job Titles:

• Director of Engineering
• Professional Engineer

Jose De Jesus is a Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience and has spent the last seven engineering and managing capital projects for Port Tampa Bay and ascended to Director of Engineering in October 2021. Prior to working at Port Tampa Bay, Mr. De Jesus worked as an engineering consultant designing a wide-range of commercial projects and heavy civil projects. He has expertise in sustainable design and construction having been certified as a LEED Accredited Professional. Mr. De Jesus received his BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida. He subsequently obtained a Masters in Business Administration. Mr. De Jesus is active with various technical and professional organizations including the American Society of Civil Engineers and is part of the STEM youth outreach program through the Society of American Military Engineers. His is an alumni of Leadership Tampa Bay.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Marketing
• Vice President of Marketing at the Port

Karl Strauch is the Vice President of Marketing at the Port. He leads a team focused on strategic message positioning and planning, creative development and implementation for marketing, advertising, PR and digital/interactive/social media programs. A dynamic brand marketer, strategist, award-winning creative writer and executive project manager, Karl develops programs that build brand value around Port Tampa Bay, positively impacting the Port's target audiences with the goal of gaining market share and increasing revenue. Karl's experience spans more than 30 years in large media markets such as NYC, Los Angeles and Atlanta and he currently resides in Tampa, FL. He has worked at or on some of the top brands in the world including those at RJR Nabisco, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, I Love NY, Pearle Vision and Friedman's Jewelers as well as 70s/80s "Madison Ave" agency stalwarts N.W. Ayer, DMB&B and Wells, Rich, Greene, among others. His experience includes a wide variety of product and service categories, but has among his specialties; retail, tourism, economic development and transportation. Karl has a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from the University of Florida, '83. Karl's activities and awards include: District & Local ADDYs (Best of Show/Best of the Bays), Tellys, AMA and Industry Specific Honors including the Georgia Governor's choice award 2009. He is a graduate of Leadership Florida (Cornerstone 38), a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA) and the American Advertising Federation (AAF). Karl has served or serves on several advisory boards including Hillsborough Community College (HCC), United Way Suncoast, the Savannah Technical College, Tampa and Ybor City Chambers of Commerce, Visit Tampa Bay, The Tampa Economic Development Council and is a member of the Tampa Bay Propeller Club.

Job Titles:

• Director of Marketing

Katie Mahoney is the Director of Marketing at Port Tampa Bay. She is responsible for strategic messaging, advertising, and the execution of all creative internal and external content for the Port. She serves as an integral support to marketing and business development, engaging companies on both the national and international stage. As a creative director with more than nearly two decades of experience working on national accounts, Katie has promoted some of the world's most recognizable brands. She mastered messaging for TV, web, and digital content for both large and small advertising agencies. She's managed teams of designers, writers and developers for companies including Verizon Wireless, AT&T, and Delta Airlines. Katie has mastered the art of understanding of what customers want - from their first impulse of desire to purchasing a product. Katie received an undergraduate degree in advertising and communications from Michigan State University. She also graduated from Portfolio Center in Atlanta with a specialty. in art direction.

Job Titles:

• Chief Information Officer
• Vice President

Ken Washington began his employment with Port Tampa Bay in October 1996 and was promoted to his current position, Chief Information Officer, in 1998. In this capacity, Mr. Washington provides strategic oversight of organizational-wide information technology activities, as well as oversees the development, execution, and evaluation of all technological frameworks and infrastructure for Port Tampa Bay. Mr. Washington brings 35 years of experience in the field of information technology and has a diverse background in both corporate and governmental settings, with extensive experience in enterprise computing, telecommunications and implementations. Mr. Washington received his formal education from Hillsborough Community College, Harold Washington College, and the University of South Florida. He obtained his professional certifications as Master Certified Novell Engineer, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, and Microsoft Certified Professional. Prior to joining the Port Authority, Mr. Washington was employed by the Florida Aquarium as Manager of MIS, GTE as a Research Analyst, IBM as a Senior Technician, and served in the U.S. Army in Military Intelligence.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Government Affairs

Laura L. Lenhart joined Port Tampa Bay with nearly 15 years of experience in government affairs. Lenhart previously worked as Government Affairs Advisor at Gray Robinson, P.A., where she advocated on behalf of client issues in the Tampa Bay area and statewide on varied interests ranging from telecommunications, technology, K-12 education, transportation, and human services. She has served as the Government and Regulatory Affairs Manager for Frontier Communications serving parts of Pasco and Polk, and all of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties, where she was responsible for developing and successfully executing their annual legislative agenda. Lenhart also held government relations positions with Moffitt Cancer Center and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. She earned a Master of Science in Political Science, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, both from Florida State University.

Job Titles:

• Director of Communications

Lisa Wolf-Chason joined the Port in November of 2019 as the Director of Communications. Wolf-Chason's experience spans public relations, crisis communications and media relations roles, as well as several years as an anchor, reporter and producer in broadcast journalism. She most recently worked as the Public Information Officer for Pinellas County Schools where she served as the district spokesperson and handled all media inquiries for the district. Prior to working for the school district, Wolf-Chason was a Media Relations Specialist with Moffitt Cancer Center. As Director of Communications at Port Tampa Bay, Wolf-Chason's responsibilities include handling both external and internal communications, all media inquiries and serving as the PTB spokesperson. She will also be responsible for communicating the Port's vision and growth plans to the local Tampa Bay community and numerous maritime trade industry associations. Wolf-Chason grew up in the Tampa Bay area and is a graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media Studies. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts online at Arizona State University. She is an active mentor with Pinellas County Schools.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Security

Mark Dubina currently serves as Vice President of Security for Port Tampa Bay. Mr. Dubina is a graduate of Florida State University, with extensive additional specialized training in law enforcement operations and seaport security. Mr. Dubina is a Certified Law Enforcement Officer, Certified Law Enforcement Instructor, Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Port Executive™. Mr. Dubina has a combined 32 years of law enforcement and public sector management experience. Mr. Dubina's current duties include management of all aspects of security operations for the Port, Florida's largest and most diversified port. Mr. Dubina serves on the board of the Tampa Bay Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Working Group, the State of Florida Domestic Security Oversight Council Critical Infrastructure Working Group, the Tampa Bay Regional Domestic Security Task Force and the Area Maritime Security Committee. Mr. Dubina is also a board member of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Immediately prior to his current position, Mr. Dubina was the Chief of Investigations for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) in Tampa. During his career with FDLE, Mr. Dubina gained extensive experience organizing and directing investigations, supervising special events and coordinating security details for visiting dignitaries.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Operations

Captain Matt Thompson is responsible for facilitating cargo and cruise operations throughout the port area, by water, land or rail. He is also responsible for ensuring public terminal facilities are operated efficiently and professionally and in keeping with regulations. Additionally, he works closely with the security, facilities and business development teams to continue to expand the port and our operations. Matt previously served as Port Tampa Bay's Director of Cruise Operations & Emergency Management. Prior to that, Captain Thompson has over 30-years of experience in maritime operations and emergency management. Before joining Port Tampa Bay in 2022, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard as Sector Commander of the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay Area, Captain of the Port, Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection, Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator, Federal On-Scene Coordinator, and Federal Maritime Security Coordinator, while directing all Coast Guard operations along the West Coast of Florida and throughout the Tampa Bay region. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Excelsior College in Management, and a Joint Professional Military Education certification from the U.S. Air Force, Air Command and Staff College. Captain Matt Thompson was The Propeller Club Port of Tampa's Maritime Person of the Year for 2022, and his military personal awards include: a Legion of Merit, three Meritorious Service Medals, four Commendation Medals, and three Achievement Medals.

Job Titles:

• Commissioner

Jane is a 31-year veteran of the Tampa Police Department serving in nearly every capacity of the department and every area of the city. In October of 2009, Castor became the first woman to be named Police Chief in the City of Tampa, serving for six years in that role. During her time as a senior staff member, Castor worked to reduce major crimes 70% citywide. While chief she developed and successfully executed a progressive policing strategy during the 2012 Republican National Convention and oversaw the successful Bollywood Awards, held in America for the first time. In addition, she oversaw the multi-jurisdictional security plan for Super Bowl XLIII and led the Department of Homeland Security's Tampa Bay Urban Area Security Initiative. Castor was instrumental in the development of the plan that reorganized the police department, consisting of 1,300 officers and employees with a $145 million annual budget - creating three smaller, more manageable districts. Decentralization ensured commanders had the necessary resources to fulfill their missions and gave officers the opportunity to immerse themselves within the community. Community outreach was a cornerstone of her career. During her time as a beat-cop working night shifts, Jane knew the families, business owners, and community leaders in her neighborhood and, as chief, she expected every officer to do the same. Under her watch, the ‘golden rule' was that "everyone was treated with dignity and respect". She also brought an added focus that to be successful, the police department had to be immersed in the community as a partner. To that end, Jane developed and implemented an enhanced Citizen Academy to allow the community to get an inside look at the police department and foster positive working relationships. She also created the Young Citizens Academy, to provide younger citizens with an opportunity to become familiar with the field of law enforcement and to be mentored by officers. Additionally, the police department partnered with the Florida Holocaust Museum and the Anti-Defamation League to have every officer tour the museum and participate in discussions about the importance of their role in the community. Committed to youth, Jane raised funds to build a $4 million gymnasium and recreation center for at-risk children. The Police Athletic League now offers afterschool and summer programs for more than 500 disadvantaged youth. Under Jane's leadership the police department also built an additional RICH House in the city. They provide a safe haven for children in economically challenged neighborhoods and have provided after school guidance and support to hundreds of needy children. Jane created RISE Tampa, a foundation aimed at providing law enforcement training and equipment not available through budgetary means, in addition to supporting youth programs in our community. Jane continues to be very active in the community including participation on the Gracepoint Mental Health and Wellness Board of Directors, Starting Right, Now Board of Directors, RISE Tampa Police Foundation Founder and Board Chair, Bike Walk Tampa Bay Board Chair, and The Athena Society Board of Directors and GTE Financial Supervisory Committee. She is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and a Police Foundation Fellow. On a national and local level, Jane Castor is recognized for her leadership in both law enforcement and community involvement. She is honored to have been the recipient of numerous awards including the 2015 University of South Florida President's Distinguished Citizen Award, 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award from Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police, 2014 Tampa Chamber of Commerce's Woman of Influence, Leadership Tampa Alumni Parke Wright III Leadership Award, 2014 Florida Holocaust Museum's Lobenberg Humanitarian Award, 2013 Crisis Center of Tampa Bay's Community Advocate Award, 2011 Tampa Connection's Betty Tribble Citizen of the Year Award, 2010 University of Tampa Alumni Achievement Award, 2009 National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executive's Law Enforcement Executive of the Year Award, 2007 Josephine Howard Stafford Memorial Award for Community Engagement, and the 2006 University of Tampa University Athletic Hall of Fame. Jane Castor is the 59th Mayor of the City of Tampa. She is born and raised in Tampa Florida, graduated from Chamberlain High and attended the University of Tampa on an athletic scholarship. Jane is a 31-year veteran of the Tampa Police Department serving in nearly every capacity of the department and every area of the city. In October of 2009, Castor became the first woman to be named Police Chief in the City of Tampa, serving for six years in that role. During her time as a senior staff member, Castor worked to reduce major crimes 70% citywide. While chief she developed and successfully executed a progressive policing strategy during the 2012 Republican National Convention and oversaw the successful Bollywood Awards, held in America for the first time. In addition, she oversaw the multi-jurisdictional security plan for Super Bowl XLIII and led the Department of Homeland Security's Tampa Bay Urban Area Security Initiative. Castor was instrumental in the development of the plan that reorganized the police department, consisting of 1,300 officers and employees with a $145 million annual budget - creating three smaller, more manageable districts. Decentralization ensured commanders had the necessary resources to fulfill their missions and gave officers the opportunity to immerse themselves within the community. Community outreach was a cornerstone of her career. During her time as a beat-cop working night shifts, Jane knew the families, business owners, and community leaders in her neighborhood and, as chief, she expected every officer to do the same. Under her watch, the ‘golden rule' was that "everyone was treated with dignity and respect". She also brought an added focus that to be successful, the police department had to be immersed in the community as a partner.

Job Titles:

• Commissioner
• Business Leader

Commissioner Michael Owen was raised in Brandon, Florida and still calls it home today. His devotion to our community runs deep, and he works to bring sensible solutions to the growing challenges to the residents of District 4. Commissioner Owen is a hometown business leader, and he attended a mixture of public and private schools in Hillsborough County as a youth. On a baseball scholarship, Saint Leo College and later went to law school in the state of Michigan. Commissioner Owen has been a small business owner in our community for over 15 years, employing residents of our community. As an attorney, he has prided himself in helping new businesses and assists individuals in the protection of their assets through effective estate planning. Through his consumer law small business practice and time serving in the Rotary, Tony Saladino Baseball Tournament Committee, Center State Bank Advisory Board, Angel Foundation Advisory Board, BSAC Board, Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Board and Center Place Fine Arts Board, Commissioner Owen had seen first-hand the needs of our community. It is important to Commissioner Owen that his community thrives in small business opprotunies. It is equally important that the local not-for-profits flourish along with our community churches. Commissioner Owen attends Arise Church in Brandon, and his faith is the cornerstone of his life. It is critical to Commissioner Owen that our Military Veterans obtain all they deserve for the sacrifices they make. Commissioner Owen is committed to public safety and support of our first responders. Further, District 4 is home to some of Florida's leading agricultural assets and Commissioner Owen if focused on managing growth while preserving our agricultural treasures.

Job Titles:

• Director of Procurement

Nancy Marino joined Port Tampa Bay in 2009. As the Procurement Director, she is responsible for the management, administration and supervision of the agency's purchasing programs. These plans incorporate activities to bring more spending under management, enhance the procurement department's skills and visibility, and increase both internal and external collaboration. The Procurement Director also oversees the Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program. Nancy's career includes 6 years management experience with the Tampa Expressway Authority, and prior to that, she accumulated over 20 years of business administration experience within the private sector. She has worked in management and other leadership roles for engineering, construction and manufacturing firms ranging from small local businesses to global corporations. Ms. Marino grew up in western Nebraska and graduated from Chadron State College (NE) with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. She moved to the Tampa area in 1981. She and her husband currently reside in Valrico, FL.

Job Titles:

• Director of Facilities

Norberto Sanchez began his career in 1999, after completing his education as an Electronic Engineer Technician and Master Electrician back in his home island of Puerto Rico. Norberto worked in different positions in this field from crew leader to Journeyman Electrician; and in 2006 he was hired by Port Tampa Bay as an Electrician III for the Facilities Management Department where he holds the Department's Director Position since 2010. Norberto has over 13 years of combined experience working in the construction and port industries with his specialty. Norberto's dedication and leadership qualities made him a noticeable candidate to take on the responsibility of managing a team of 8 staff members ranging from Trades Workers, Electricians and HVAC Technicians; and became the ideal candidate for the Director's position 4 years later, with 18 staff members at the present time. Norberto's passion and dedication only increased with his promotion, as he is a true "hands-on" Director, always working by his staff and not hesitating to get involved in the facility's repairs, whether is an electrical issue or not. His leadership abilities are well noticed in his team performance and how he earned the trust of his team almost immediately, due in the most part to his work ethics and family values that keep him grounded, showing his staff the perfect example of where your hard work and determination can lead you. In addition to his Electrical field background, Norberto also worked as a Licensed Real Estate Agent; his experience in this field along with his personal approach, increased his professional commitment towards clients, customers and Port tenants.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Engineering

Patrick Blair is the Vice President of Engineering at Port Tampa Bay, joining the Port in 2010. Patrick oversees all of Port Tampa Bay's capital improvements including design, permitting, construction and dredging. As well overseeing the maintenance of the Ports approximately 5,000 acres including two Spoil Islands and over 70 Berths. Patrick has more than 20 years of engineering and construction experience. Before joining the team at Port Tampa Bay, Patrick was a structural design consultant at Weber and Tinnen Structural Engineers, and has been a principal and owner at several structural consulting firms. He has also been a structural forensic expert on hundreds of cases acting as an expert witness. Patrick is a Licensed Professional Engineer, and Special Inspector in the State of Florida. Patrick has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of South Florida, with a Capstone in Structural Engineering. Patrick served as a decorated Sergeant in the Unites States Army, receiving two NATO Medals for his participation in the Kosovo and Bosnia campaigns

Job Titles:

• Secretary
• Treasurer

Patrick Allman grew up in Miami and graduated from the University of Virginia in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering. He was subsequently commissioned as an officer in the US Navy through the NROTC Program and completed the Navy's Nuclear Power Training Program. He served as a Division Officer and Department Head in his initial sea duty assignment onboard the USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625), a ballistic missile submarine, and qualified as an Engineer and Weapons Officer. Mr. Allman did a follow-on tour in Tampa as the Officer-in-Charge of Navy Recruiting for West Coast. In 1990, Mr. Allman left active duty and affiliated with the U.S. Naval Reserve. Also in 1990, he earned an MBA from the University of Tampa, graduating with High Honors. During his service in the Navy Reserve, Mr. Allman has held five Commanding Officer billets and was the Executive Officer for the 65-person Navy contingent supporting USSOCOM at MacDill Air Force Base. He retired in June 2013 at the rank of Captain with 30 years of continuous service. Mr. Allman has worked in a variety of engineering, sales, marketing and management roles for the past thirty-eight years including his eight years of active duty in the U.S. Navy, nine years with Tampa Electric Company and the past twenty-three years at Odyssey Manufacturing Company as the General Manager. Odyssey Manufacturing is the largest industrial supplier of sodium hypochlorite in Florida and imports its raw material (salt) through Port Tampa Bay. Mr. Allman is active in the community and numerous other local, state and national water and wastewater treatment organizations. Patrick H. Allman occupies Tampa Port Authority Board of Commissioners Seat #5. Pursuant to Chapter 95-488 Laws of Florida, as amended (Enabling Act), this seat is one of two appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida from a list of persons who have maritime industry backgrounds nominated for that purpose by a nominating committee.

Job Titles:

• CEO
• President
• Chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities

Paul Anderson is a Former Federal Maritime Commissioner and joined Port Tampa Bay as Chief Executive Officer in December 2012 after holding a series of high-profile leadership positions in the public and private sectors.. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay, Mr. Anderson was the Chief Executive Officer at the Jacksonville Port Authority. Nominated to the Federal Maritime Commission by President George W. Bush in 2003, and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2004, Anderson served a five-year term ending in 2008. In addition, the president designated Anderson as the Commission's Chairman and re-nominated him for a second five year term. A highlight of Anderson's service included his appointment to the Committee on Marine Transportation, a cabinet-level strategy group responsible for the nation's seaports and reporting directly to the president. Anderson spent 10 years with JM Family Enterprises; a diversified automobile business headquartered in Deerfield Beach, Florida, and was previously a senior director of Seabulk Marine, Inc., an international marine transportation company in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He has also served as an advisor on intermodal issues to former Florida governors Jeb Bush and Charlie Crist. Anderson currently serves as chair of the American Association of Port Authorities. Additionally, he currently serves as Chairman of the Coalition for America's Gateways and Trade Corridors (CAGTC). He recently completed a second term as the Chairman of the Florida Ports Council, having been reelected by his fellow Florida port directors and as well as previously serving as chair of the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council (FSTED). Anderson also serves on the board of directors for the Florida Chamber of Commerce; Associated Industries of Florida; Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation; Leukemia Lymphoma Society; The Florida Aquarium; Visit Tampa Bay; Tampa Bay EDC; and the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). He has also held numerous community leadership positions including Chair, Board of Trustees, Broward (FL) Community College; Chair, Broward Alliance; Chair, Broward Health Foundation; Board of Directors of The Orange Bowl Committee; Board of Advisors of the South Florida PGA; and the National Executive Committee of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship. Anderson recently served as co-chair of the Jack H. Lucas Commissioning Committee. The Jack H. Lucas Commissioning Committee, Navy League of Tampa and U.S. Department of the Navy worked to host the historic commissioning of the USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125) Arleigh-Burke Class Warship. Ship commissioning is the act or ceremony of placing a ship into active Navy service. The commissioning ceremony is one of the most significant milestones in the life of a U.S. Navy ship. The committee raised money to support the ship and her crew, after the ship was officially commissioned into service. Anderson has lived in Florida for over 35 years and relocated with his family to Tampa, except during the period of his public service in Washington, D.C. Anderson is a 1982 graduate of the University of Florida and completed the Senior Managers in Government program at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Job Titles:

• Director of Finance

Phillip Lawson is the Director of Finance at Port Tampa Bay. He is responsible for managing the day-to-day administration of Port Tampa Bay's Finance Department and all aspects of accounting/bookkeeping functions and financial reporting in accordance with the General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Government Accounting Standards Boards (GASB). Phillip manages the annual operating budget, audit oversight and coordination, financial systems and implementation, risk management and administration of Port Tampa Bay's internal controls. Mr. Lawson previously served as senior accountant for Port Tampa Bay and has more than 15 years of experience in accounting and finance positions. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay in March of 2015, Phillip worked as an accountant for Hillsborough County Public Utilities. Mr. Lawson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from DeVry University and is currently pursuing a Masters of Public Administration from the University of South Florida. He is a Certified Government Financial Officer and is Six Sigma Greenbelt certified. Phillip is also an active member of the state and local Hillsborough chapter of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Planning and Development

Ram Kancharla is Vice President of Planning and Development for Florida's largest port. For three decades, he has overseen Port Tampa Bay's capital improvements, strategic planning, economic development, capital resource management, and inter-agency coordination and outreach at the state and federal level. He has overseen $1.5 billion in capital projects and secured more than $600 million in external funding. Kancharla has a Master's in Business Administration from the University of South Florida and is certified by the American Association of Port Authorities as a Professional Port Manager (PPM®). He is an alumnus of Leadership Florida, Leadership Tampa, and represents the port of Tampa on various committees involved in freight movement, intermodal planning, finance, trade, logistics and the maritime industry. Kancharla was appointed by the U.S. Commerce Secretary to serve on the U.S. Department of Commerce Advisory Council on Supply Chain Competitiveness. He is one of the Miami Herald's 2019 Florida Influencers. Kancharla is active in the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Tampa Bay Partnership, Florida Council for Public Private Partnerships, Government Finance Officers Association, Intermodal Association of America Marine Division, and American Association of Port Authorities. He advises or serves on the boards of Floridians for Better Transportation, Economic Club of Tampa Bay, the USC Marshall Center for Global Supply Chain Management Executive Board, and the USF Center for Urban Transportation Research. Kancharla was a Global Advisory Council member for Columbia-based Innovation in Logistics Supply Chain and Port Management (LOGPORT), and was a U.S. Maritime Administration Strong Ports focus group member. He is an active Rotarian and serves on several community boards including Feeding America.

Job Titles:

• Chief Commercial Officer
• Executive Vice President

Raul Alfonso is the Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer of Port Tampa Bay. Since joining the port in 2013 as Chief Commercial Officer, Raul has led the port's commercial activities, with responsibilities for the areas in Real Estate, Planning, Marketing, Business Development and Branding. In 2014, Raul was promoted to his current position, as Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, assuming additional responsibilities as second in command to the Port's President and CEO.

Job Titles:

• Director of Real Estate

Ronald Glessing is the Director of Real Estate at Port Tampa Bay. His duties include establishing and strengthening customer relations, expanding tenant outreach events, and helping to advance the Port's leasing, acquisition and planning services. Ron has more than 20 years of corporate real estate and portfolio management experience. Before joining the team at Port Tampa Bay, Ron was a Senior Vice President at two of the country's largest financial service organizations: Citigroup and The PNC Financial Services Group, where he was acknowledged for developing successful growth strategies, and implementing long-term master plans. Ron has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and Politics, from St. John's University, and serves as a member of the Kairos Prison Ministry International and the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute Ministry Team.

Job Titles:

• Vice President of Legal Affairs

Ryan Fierst has more than 20 years of experience in law, public policy, and government. She worked on Capitol Hill as a Counsel for US House Judiciary Committee and served as Legislative Director for two Congressman representing the Central Florida region. Fierst also served as the Public Policy Director and Legislative Counsel for the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. She began her career working as a Staff Attorney for the Florida House of Representatives for Speaker Tom Feeny in Tallahassee, Florida. Fierst most recently worked as an economic development consultant and grant writer for several statewide Florida non-profits and the Florida House of Representatives. Prior to that, Ryan worked as a Senior Management Analyst for the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity where she oversaw project, contract, and grant management for many of the state's economic development agencies, including EFI, Space Florida, and VISIT FLORIDA. Fierst holds a Bachelor of Science from Liberty University and a law degree from Regents University School of Law. She is a native of Tampa and is a licensed attorney in the state of Florida.

Job Titles:

• Director of Cruise Operations & Emergency Management

Shawn Brown has served in a variety of roles within Port Tampa Bay's Operations Department for nearly 15 years. As Director of Cruise Operations & Emergency Management, Brown will be responsible for leading all cruise and passenger vessel operations and processes, acting as the on-call incident Commander and leading emergency management programs/operations for Port Tampa Bay. In addition, Brown will be responsible for developing a strategic vision, implementing, and evaluating Emergency Operations Plans. This position is also responsible for leading all Port Tampa Bay cruise and passenger operations and serves as a liaison with operators, tenants, port users, and vendors for the cruise terminal events, as well as, Sparkman Wharf/Water Street events. Brown earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Saint Leo University. He also holds a variety of certifications related to safety, security and maritime-specific issues issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other federal, state and local agencies. Brown has worked in a variety of positions within the Operations and Security Departments and has a vast knowledge of maritime-specific safety, security and emergency preparedness issues. He has played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the port's annual Hurricane Exercise and Safety Summit.

Job Titles:

• Commissioner
• Senior Vice President

Ted Conner is a Senior Vice President, Old Republic National Title Insurance Company and Deputy General Counsel of Old Republic National Title Holding Company with extensive corporate governance and insurance regulatory experience. Mr. Conner earned a B.S. degree in business administration with a major in real estate from the University of Florida and a J.D. degree from the University of Florida College of Law. He was in private practice in the Orlando area for twelve years and previously served as General Counsel for Attorneys' Title Fund Services, LLC. Mr. Conner authored chapters in Florida Real Property Title Examination and Insurance and Florida Real Property Sales Transactions (Fla.CLE). Mr. Conner serves on the NAIC Liaison Committee of the American Land Title Association. He previously served on the Executive Council of the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section of the Florida Bar. Mr. Conner chaired the Florida Land Title Association's Governmental Affairs Committee and served on the FLTA's Board of Directors. Mr. Conner is a Florida board certified real estate lawyer.

Job Titles:

• Chief of Staff

Thomas Hobbs has 20 years' experience in Florida politics, starting his career in Governor Bush's Office of Drug Control Policy, and continuing work in the Governors' Office of Policy and Budget leading the Special Projects Division. Later he moved to the Florida House of Representatives for two years as the Deputy Director for the Majority Whip under Carlos Lopez Cantera. He spent the last ten years as a contract lobbyist representing multiple Fortune 500 companies, technology and education clients, as well as municipalities and special districts. Mr. Hobbs is also a Major serving in the Florida Army National Guard, currently assigned as the Headquarters Commander for Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. He joined in 2007, enlisting as a Combat Engineer before graduating Officer Candidate School and commissioning as a Military Intelligence Officer in 2009. He was selected to go to Army Flight School in 2011 and is an HH-60 Blackhawk Medevac Pilot. He served in Iraq from 2016-2017, earning a Meritorious Service Medal for his actions. Mr. Hobbs is a two time graduate from Florida State University, earning his Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Social Science in 2002 and his Master's Degree in Political Science in 2004.

Job Titles:

• Director for Foreign - Trade Zone
• Director, FTZ and Cargo Business Development

Torrey Chambliss is the Director for Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) and Cargo Business Development at Port Tampa Bay. His responsibilities include management and development of the Tampa Bay FTZ project and increasing the total amount and type of cargo moving through Port Tampa Bay. Before working at Port Tampa Bay, Mr. Chambliss worked for the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation as its principal Research Analyst investigating key macro-economic indicators that affected the Tampa Bay business community and conducting confidential research for companies looking to establish and/or expand their presence in the Tampa Bay market. Prior to moving to Tampa, Florida, Mr. Chambliss worked as a consultant at the American Chamber of Commerce in Mexico City, Mexico and as a consultant for the United States Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program in Washington DC. In addition, he worked as a representative staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives. Mr. Chambliss earned an MBA from the Mexican Autonomous Institute of Technology in Mexico City, Mexico and obtained both an MA in International Relations and a BA in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University. Mr. Chambliss is a member of the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones' Board of Directors and serves as the Vice Chair for the Florida Chamber of Commerce's Trade and Logistics Institute. Mr. Chambliss is also a licensed customs broker, an Accredited Zone Specialist, and fluent in Spanish.

Job Titles:

• Senior Vice President of Marketing & Business Development

Wade Elliott joined the Port in 2003 and is responsible for the marketing and business development activities of Port Tampa Bay. Mr. Elliott has more than 25 years of port business development and research experience working with clients across the globe, including exporters, importers, ocean carriers, terminal operators and cruise lines. He was previously Executive Director of the Halifax-Dartmouth Port Development Commission, reporting to the Commission's board of directors for this agency responsible for port business development, as well as public, media and government relations. Mr. Elliott is a graduate of Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where he also worked as Research Associate conducting economic and policy research in the maritime sector. He began his career working at sea aboard a variety of container, bulk, tanker, offshore supply and seismic survey vessels. He is the Chairman of the Tampa Foreign Trade Zone, and serves on the board of directors of Tampa Port Ministries Seafarers' Center and the Tampa Bay International Business Council.