Port of Morrow announces new executive director

LIsa Mittelsdorf

The Port of Morrow Commission announces the selection of the new executive director after an internal search. Letters of interest from qualified candidates were due April 4, 2022. Interviews were conducted on April 25, 2022 in executive session by the port commission and a second panel of representatives from across Morrow County.

The Port Commission has selected Lisa Mittelsdorf as the next executive director. Mittelsdorf has been with the Port of Morrow for over 30 years and has always worked closely with previous directors. She is currently the economic development director and will begin her new role on May 9, 2022.

“I’m very proud and pleased that Lisa has been selected as the executive director of the Port of Morrow. She is an exceptional leader,” says Rick Stokoe, port commission president. “Lisa’s successful collaborations with her many board positions, strong community and business partnerships, and experience managing successful teams will elevate the Port’s success as we continue to be the second largest Port in the state.”

“I’m pleased to have Lisa Mittelsdorf take the next step and be the leader of our team at the Port of Morrow,” says Joe Taylor, commissioner. “Her past experience and relationships are a huge advantage not only with our port partners but also with our county, region and state.”

"During my tenure at the Port of Morrow, I have witnessed tremendous growth and diversification of our businesses and industries at the port. I appreciate the opportunity I had to work under the incredible leadership of Gary Neal for many years and then his son, Ryan. Like his father, Ryan was a visionary leader with a heart for Boardman and the surrounding region. I’m proud of the work we have done over the years to increase the livability and family wages that benefit our communities in Morrow County. I look forward to supporting the vision and mission of the port in my new position as executive director," shared Mittelsdorf.

Three very qualified internal applicants applied for the position making the decision difficult. The port commission would like to convey their thanks to the candidates who applied for the position. The port is very proud of its team members and their desire to further the port's mission and goal.

The Executive Director position is responsible for the management and administration of Port activities. The position was left vacant after the untimely passing of Ryan Neal in January. The Port presently employs approximately 135 full-time employees and is the second largest port in the State of Oregon after the Port of Portland.

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