By Karen Robes Meeks
On May 23, the Port of Long Beach announced the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners' appointment of Duane Kenagy as the new deputy executive director for the Port of Long Beach. Kenagy previously served as interim chief executive while port officials conducted their seven-month search for a new leader following the resignation of Jon Slangerup.
Slangerup left September 8 to lead a Canada-based aviation technology firm. In April, the port named Mario Cordero its new executive director.
“Duane provided exceptional leadership during an important transition period at the Port of Long Beach,” Harbor Commission President Lori Ann Guzmán said in a statement. “It was exactly what the Board was hoping for, and this appointment is a reflection of Duane’s value and service. He will be an important adviser to Mario as the Port navigates important changes in the shipping industry.”
Kenagy is a maritime veteran with more than 35 years of experience in engineering and project management in the US and abroad. He worked for engineering consulting firm Moffatt & Nichol, where he was instrumental in the building of the Alameda Corridor rail project.
In 2014, he became the port’s Capital Programs Executive tasked with overseeing its major modernization projects, including the replacement of the Gerald Desmond Bridge and the redevelopment of Middle Harbor.
“Duane has done a commendable job leading the Port for these last eight months,” Cordero said. “I’m excited to work with someone who is so respected by the Commission, Port staff and our customers. His long history of guiding big maritime infrastructure projects will continue to be invaluable as we build the Green Port of the Future.”
