Tuesday, July 3, 2018

New Executive for Redwood City

By Karen Robes Meeks

Kristine A. Zortman, vice president of the economic development nonprofit Civic San Diego, will lead the Port of Redwood City as its new executive director.

Zortman will take over for longtime director Mike Giari, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

“Following an extensive recruitment effort, the Port Commission is thrilled to announce the selection of Kristine A. Zortman to further the port’s successful economic development and maritime trade growth,” said Richard Dodge, chair of the Port Commission. “Kristine’s experience and leadership in maritime commercial growth and expansion and maritime related commercial real estate were key assets advancing her as our top candidate,” he added. “Kristine’s successful collaborations with boards, strong community and business partnerships, and experience managing successful internal teams will elevate the port’s success as we continue as a leader among California and US ports and focus on economic development, transportation and community building initiatives and priorities.”

Prior to working with Civic San Diego, Zortman negotiated long-term commercial real estate leases for the Port of San Diego for eight years and worked on land acquisition for Lennar Communities for six years. She also did environmental project management for several years, according to the port.

“I am grateful and thank the Port Commission leadership for their confidence in me to lead the Port of Redwood City,” Zortman said. “I look forward to working with an outstanding internal leadership team, to develop strong partnerships with the Redwood City community, and local, national and international business leaders, and to partner with local, state and federal port leaders to further the important work of ports nationwide. As an economic engine, the port’s strategic alliances and business partnerships will facilitate it truly becoming the region’s partner of choice in multi-national maritime trade and industry.”