Bill H. Stern, a Columbia businessman and the vice chairman of the SCSPA, will head the search committee, which represents a cross-section of business, transportation, logistics and economic development.
"They are true leaders with a strong history of business accomplishments and public service," said Stern, who reached out for input on the search process. "We are honored and humbled that they have agreed to serve for this important task."
In addition to Mr. Stern, the search committee members include:
Over the coming months, the committee will work to guide the search process, identifying and recruiting potential candidates and considering a search firm to assist with the effort. The group is expected to recommend a candidate or candidates for final consideration by the SCSPA Board.
"With the strength and expertise assembled around us on the search committee, I'm confident we'll find a candidate that meets the state's needs and will lead our vital port system," said Stern.
"We will be looking for a leader that exhibits customer focus, vision, a demonstrated track record of performance, and strong team building and communication abilities," said David J. Posek, chairman of the SCSPA Board. "While we're at an early stage, we have an exceptional committee and expect considerable interest in the position," said Posek.
The South Carolina State Ports Authority, established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston and Georgetown, handling international commerce valued at more than $60 billion annually. Seaport operations facilitate 260,800 jobs across South Carolina and nearly $45 billion in economic activity each year. For more information, visit www.scspa.com.