AAPA Board of Directors Announces Election of Port Tampa CEO as New Chair

The Board of Directors of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) unanimously elected Paul Anderson, President and CEO of Port Tampa Bay, as the Chairman of the 111-year-old association, effective immediately. AAPA is the trade association for 140 seaports in the western hemisphere, which sustain tens of millions of jobs and trillions in economic activity.

“At a moment when seaports are becoming increasingly rooted in the consciousness of policymakers, businesses, and everyday consumers, I am pleased to congratulate Paul on his elevation to Chair of the American Association of Port Authorities,” said Chris Connor, AAPA President and CEO. “He is a proven leader in the port industry, who oversees one of the nation’s fastest-growing ports and will transition smoothly into this new role with our association after already serving as Vice Chair. Paul follows in a long line of exceptional maritime leaders and is just the right person for this role.”

"Our nation's seaports are playing a critical role in providing the goods and services that consumers depend on. It is an honor and privilege to be elected by my peers to serve as Chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities to advocate on behalf of my colleagues and ensure the infrastructure and policy needs of some of the country's largest economic drivers are met. I congratulate my predecessor Sean Strawbridge on his years of service to the organization and look forward to building on his mission to drive AAPA forward," explained Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO.

Mr. Anderson will serve out the remainder of the two-year term begun by Mr. Sean Strawbridge, CEO of the Port of Corpus Christi. He has resigned his chairmanship of the Association effective immediately and his post at the port effective June 2. The Association, its members, and its staff thank Mr. Strawbridge for his tenure as Chair, during which the groundwork was laid for national freight planning and infrastructure permitting reform.

Mr. Anderson brings a wealth of experience to the Association, most especially as a former Presidential appointee at the Federal Maritime Commission and his leadership of Port Tampa Bay, which has already hosted numerous Association events including the POWERS Program Summit this past January. Mr. Anderson is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Jacksonville Port Authority. He currently chairs the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program and is the former chairperson of the Florida Ports Council.