The Lorain Port and Finance Authority Board of Directors met this evening to discuss the necessity of a new position at the Lorain Port. With the recent acquisition of the Rockin' on the River asset and the redevelopment plans at Black River Landing, the need for a new position was evident. After much deliberation on organizational structure, an Operations Director job position was created by the Board. This position will be responsible for the planning, coordinating, administering, and successful execution of events at Black River Landing which includes events managed by the Port, outside event coordinators or partnerships. The employee will be responsible for the site readiness of Black River Landing and will focus efforts on improving the physical infrastructure of the site as well as the event offerings to enhance the brand of Black River Landing. It was imperative that the agency find the right fit for this position, and it was clear to them who that could be: Executive Director Tom Brown.
Executive Director Brown had expressed interest in this position multiple times as the agency moved in the direction of acquiring the Rockin' on the River asset. His experience over the past seven years as the Executive Director, his relationship with Bob and Sandy Earley (previous owners of Rockin' on the River) and his passion for being a piece of the growth and success of the City of Lorain made him the ideal candidate. The Board of Directors offered Executive Director Brown the position and he enthusiastically accepted. "I am really honored to accept this new position and truly appreciate the support of our Board of Directors." said Tom Brown, "I am looking forward to maintaining the excellence and success of Rockin' on the River that Bob and Sandy created, while also forging new partnerships, collaborations and events at Black River Landing. We have had some great success at Black River Landing but as we enter 2025 it will be about reimagining our future and I am ready to take on this very exciting mission."
Board Chairman Brad Mullins expressed his excitement for this transition. "The more we talked about this position the more it became evident that Tom had interest in changing roles within the organization. His imagination, enthusiasm and knowledge of the site made our decision a little easier. We look forward to seeing what Tom brings to Black River Landing as we continue to work to enhance and improve our waterfront in Lorain."
Effective October 16th, 2024 Mr. Brown will assume the role of Operations Director. Due to the vacancy that this creates, the Board of Directors will immediately begin a search for the next Executive Director of the Lorain Port. While the search is underway, Assistant Director Tiffany McClelland will act as interim Executive Director.
Those interested in applying for the Executive Director position, please send a cover letter and resume to Brad Mullins at admin@lorainportauthority.com.
