INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Kristi McKenney, Executive Director Port of Oakland
Partnerships, modernization and a vision for a zero-emission future
F or almost a century, the Port of Oakland has served as one of North America’s most stra- tegically important gateways for trade and travel. As a combined seaport, airport, real estate developer and even utilities provider, the Port plays a unique role in the economic life of the San Francisco Bay Area and the broader U.S. economy. In an interview for Pacific Ports Magazine , Executive Director Kristi McKenney reflects on her first year in the role, outlining a strategy focused on partnership, modernization and sustainability. Home to a seaport, airport, com- mercial real estate portfolio, and, uniquely, providing utilities for port operations, McKenney highlights her priorities, including partnerships with stakeholders, modernization of ter- minals and airport facilities, environ- mental leadership, and the challenges of managing large-scale infrastructure during an era of economic uncertainty.
As a combined seaport, airport, real estate developer and even utilities provider, the Port plays a unique role in the economic life of the San Francisco Bay Area...
me was relatively smooth because I’ve been with the Port for a long time and held many different positions. Before becoming Executive Director, I spent five years as Chief Operating Officer. In that role, I oversaw cen- tralized operations under the prior Executive Director, so stepping into this position felt like a natural progres- sion. I already knew the organization deeply, and I wasn’t new to maritime operations or the broader business environment of the Port. What changed is the scope of engagement. A lot of my first year has been about getting out into the com- munity — meeting with tenants, busi- ness partners, and our neighbors in the surrounding communities. Listening has been a big focus.
From expanding vessel turning basins to pioneering zero-emission equipment and modernizing waterfront develop- ment rules, McKenney outlines how the Port of Oakland is preparing for the decades ahead while maintaining its irreplaceable role in U.S. trade. PP: First off, welcome to the Association. It’s great to have the Port of Oakland as our newest Port Member. KM: We’re happy to be on board. It’s exciting for us. PP: You’ve been in this role almost a year now. What skills and strengths do you think helped you land this role? And what have you learned in the past year that you didn’t expect? KM: Well, there’s always something unexpected when you step into a leader- ship role like this, but the transition for
12 — PACIFIC PORTS — March 2026
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator