Paulson shared his plans for retirement with the commission in early 2010; at which time the commission accelerated the port’s succession planning process that began in 2006. Pat Jones, an independent contractor with Jones Strategic Consulting and former executive director of the Washington Public Ports Association, was hired to assist the commissioners through the process. Jones conducted extensive interviews with key port staff and a number of community leaders to gather input.
Coleman was identified early in the process as a strong internal candidate. Joining the port in 2001, Coleman served as director of facilities before being promoted to deputy executive director in 2005. Prior to joining the port, Coleman was a partner in an engineering consulting firm, Coleman & Davido Engineering Consultants, in Estacada, Ore. He also held positions with Oregon companies URS, Inc. and Parametrix, Inc.
“I’m very pleased to see Todd move into this position,” said Paulson. “He’s done a superb job guiding the port successfully forward in what can only be called a very challenging economic environment; and because he knows our organization inside and out he’ll bring continuity along with his own innovative ideas to the position.”
Upon retirement, Paulson will have served the port for twenty years. Beginning in 1992, he acted as the primary attorney to the port while with the law offices of Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt. He was named successor to retired Executive Director Byron Hanke in April 1997, and officially took the helm at the port as executive director in January 1999.
“Working at the port under Larry’s leadership has been an honor,” said Coleman. “I am humbled by the support I’ve received from the staff and the community through this process, and I look forward to partnering with the commission in continuing to deliver economic benefit to our region.”
Paulson and Coleman will continue in their currently held positions through April 30, 2012.