The Port of Portland has selected Kristina Kelchner as the new Chief Development Services Officer. Her first day in the role will be Feb. 22, 2024.
Kelchner currently serves as Assistant General Counsel at the Port, a position she has held since 2022. She previously served as assistant general manager in the Stewardship and Development Division of the East Bay Regional Park District in Oakland, Calif.
“With her public agency background, and expertise in leading planning, environmental and engineering operations, Kristina brings a strategic and inclusive leadership style that will benefit the Port,” said Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold. “I was impressed by Kristina’s passion for our mission and her commitment to trust, belonging and inclusion, and I'm excited to have her leadership as we continue to break down barriers and connect people and local businesses to powerful opportunities.”
Over the past 15 months at the Port, Kelchner has served as a trusted legal advisor and strategic partner working on complex issues including leasing and development of our future Mass Timber and Housing Innovation Campus at Terminal 2, health care for airport workers, and environmental remediation and permitting strategies.
“I’m excited about the opportunities on the horizon to continue driving the Port's success as a vital economic engine for the region. I look forward to partnering with Port leaders and key community and industry partners to forge a more equitable, environmentally sustainable and prosperous future for the region.”
With its three airports, four marine terminals, and five business parks, the Port of Portland is an economic engine for transforming this region into a place where everyone is welcome, empowered, and connected to the opportunity to find a good job or grow their business.
The Chief Development Services Officer is a newly created role that reports to the Executive Director. The CDSO leads and is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the Development Services division, which includes Engineering, Environmental, Planning and Development and Safety operations. The CDSO oversees strategies, business plans and programs that support the Port’s strategic direction and advance priorities for the Aviation and Trade and Economic Development business lines.
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