Port of Long Beach taps interim CEO with heavy rail experience
Written by Kyra Senese, Managing Editor
Duane Kenagy, P.E., is the Port of Long Beach’s interim CEO.
Port of Long Beach
The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners has announced the appointment of Duane Kenagy, P.E., as the Port of Long Beach’s interim CEO.
Prior to the appointment, Kenagy served as the Port’s Capital Programs Executive, a title under which he managed nearly $4.5 billion in construction projects, Representatives say the infrastructure investment was the largest of any port nationwide.
Kenagy is involved in overseeing the the Middle Harbor Container Terminal’s redevelopment, officials say, adding that another $1.5 billion has been budgeted for upcoming rail improvements to boost the transportation of goods by rail.
“The board is extremely pleased to have Duane Kenagy serve as our interim CEO,” said Lori Ann Guzmán, president of the Board of Harbor Commissioners. “He is highly respected by all of the commissioners, very well-regarded in our industry and well-liked by the Port staff. Duane will lead the Port of Long Beach on a steady path forward as the search begins for a permanent [CEO].”
The commission and Kenagy both say he will not be considered as a candidate for a permanent role as CEO, and his proposed compensation is set at $275,000.
He began working for the port, which manages $180 billion in trade annually, in 2014 and brings with him more than 35 years of engineering and design project management experience developed in the U.S. and abroad, officials say.
“I’m looking forward to working with the Board of Harbor Commissioners, our tenants and customers and the talented team here at the Port of Long Beach to continue our strong tradition of service and innovation,” Kenagy said of his new role. “I am fully committed to helping this great organization transition to the new chief executive at the conclusion of the board’s search.”
The Board of Harbor Commissioners says it will soon send out a Request For Proposals to choose an international search firm to help select the Port’s next permanent CEO.
“We are committed to carrying out a thorough, professional and transparent global search for our next CEO,” Guzmán said.
Kenagy has previously held positions at Moffatt & Nichol, an engineering consulting firm with offices in seven countries, and played an active role in the Alameda Corridor rail project, representatives say.
Former CEO Jon Slangerup announced his departure from the port Sept. 8. Slangerup has joined a Canada-based aviation technology company as its new chairman and CEO.
“Jon Slangerup leaves behind a legacy that has positioned us very well for the future,” Guzmán said. “The commission is confident that Duane Kenagy will continue to lead the Port on a trajectory of excellence moving forward.”
