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Berkeley Search outlines international recruitment and public input plan for Port director
Summary
Berkeley Search Consultants presented the Port director recruitment timeline and outreach strategy, with a survey deadline Feb. 16 and an application deadline Feb. 20; commissioners and a public commenter emphasized seeking a leader who understands the Port’s role in the city and can manage staff and major projects.
Berkeley Search Consultants presented the Port Director recruitment plan and timeline, explaining outreach, candidate screening and public input opportunities before the commission’s upcoming interviews.
Julia Morse, vice president of Berkeley Search’s public sector practice, told commissioners the search is an international recruitment and described outreach on roughly 15 job boards, targeted professional associations and passive recruiting. She said the posted brochure and job announcement include the position profile, minimum qualifications and compensation information. Morse summarized expected funnel numbers — historically about 400 contacts leading to 20–25 top applicants and six to 12 interviews, resulting in one hire — and reported approximately 150 combined inbound and outbound inquiries so far.
Key dates and public participation: Morse asked the public and commissioners to provide input; she said a public survey will remain open through Feb. 16 and applications are due Feb. 20. The firm is targeting interviews in March and April with a final offer shortly thereafter.
Public comment and commissioner guidance: Ellen Chonk, who identified herself as co‑chair of the Port’s Maritime Commerce Advisory Committee and a long‑time Bay Area resident, urged the commission to prioritize candidates who appreciate that "the port is the city," put people first (workers, tenants and visitors) and will build staff capacity to implement Port programs. Commissioners echoed those priorities, emphasizing that the director must be ready to lead a staff of roughly 250, manage major projects such as the seawall and not treat the role as a “stepping stone.”
Process notes: Commissioners confirmed that the screening process will include commission participation; one commissioner reminded the public that the Port operates under public‑trust responsibilities, citing the Burton Act in the discussion of waterfront stewardship.
Next steps: Commissioners encouraged public participation in the survey and the firm will proceed with sourcing, screening and scheduling interviews in March–April. No hiring decision was made at this meeting.
