Port Commissioners approved a restructured organizational chart in April that aligns with efforts to provide customers with seamless service.
The Port, whose mission includes promoting sustainable economic growth, is not conducting business as usual. They are listening to what their customers are saying, and implementing sensible strategic initiatives that will improve the way the Port does business. The new structure creates the positions of business manager and customer service manager.
Veteran Port employee T.J. Quandt, was appointed to the position of Business Manager on April 19, 2017. During his seven years with the Port, T.J. has worked in the yard and moorage. His previous experience in the marine trades as well as commercial fishing provides him with a unique and broad perspective of the Port’s customer base. His knowledge of both moorage and yard operations makes him a strong asset in transitioning the customer experience at the Port to flow more smoothly than ever before. According to Port Executive Director Sam Gibboney, “T.J. is a perfect fit for this new position. He brings both his head and his heart to the job every day. His new job will give him the opportunity increase our efficiency and improve the customer experience.”
Born and raised in Port Townsend, T.J. is a third-generation commercial fisherman whose grandfather brought his Tacoma-made vessel to Port Townsend without hesitation. It’s no surprise that this “dock brat” still calls Port Townsend home today with his wife, Hollis, and their three children.