Former Port Attorney, City Council member, takes over at key moment
Editor’s note: Click here to see Port of Oakland Executive Director Danny Wan’s introductory video
Oakland, Calif. – Nov. 14, 2019: Danny Wan, who has been serving as the Port of Oakland’s interim Executive Director since last summer, and was Port Attorney for six years before that, has been named permanent Port Executive Director. The Port’s governing Board selected Mr. Wan at a special meeting this morning. He replaces Chris Lytle who retired in July after six years at the helm in Oakland. Today’s announcement caps a two-month, nationwide search.
“We’re fortunate to have Danny as the Port’s new chief executive – not only is he an experienced public professional, he is also a local leader with demonstrated commitment to the communities the Port serves,” said Board President Ces Butner.
Mr. Wan is a familiar figure in the Oakland community. In 2000, he became the first openly gay member of the Oakland City Council, representing Chinatown and the Lake Merritt district. From 1996 to 2000, he represented Oakland, Alameda and San Leandro on the EBMUD Board. He brings more than two decades of experience in public agency law, finance and environmental policy, community relations and strategic planning.
Mr. Wan takes over at a key moment. The Port reported record revenue and operating income in Fiscal Year 2019. Its seaport reached an all-time high in cargo volume while San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport neared record passenger levels. The Port is now reviewing its strategic direction heading into a new decade.
“It’s an honor to lead an organization that operates international transportation and shipping hubs and that generates tens of thousands of jobs,” said Mr. Wan. “I look forward to working with the Board and an excellent Port staff to plan for even greater efficiency in moving people and goods and to grow benefits for the state and the communities that surround the Port.”
Mr. Wan takes over an organization with three principal businesses: Aviation, Maritime and Commercial Real Estate. In addition to the Airport and seaport, the Port controls Oakland’s Jack London Square entertainment district. The Port directly employs more than 450 people.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland Seaport, San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port’s 5-year strategic plan – Growth with Care – pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 84,000 jobs. Connect with the Port of Oakland and San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
| Media ContactsMike Zampa Port of Oakland Communications Director (510) 627-1565 [email protected] Marilyn Sandifur |