Ted Fick | CEO, Port of Seattle

Veteran strategist and growth-oriented leader

Ted is a dynamic leader, experienced in guiding large organizations through significant changes in the marketplace – a proven steady hand, able to guide organizations through shifting competitive landscapes like those facing the Port of Seattle.

Right combination of skills and expertise

Ted brings the right combination of skills, expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit to the Port of Seattle – along with a fresh perspective and ability to transfer those skills to the specific maritime, aviation, and real estate operational challenges of our port.

Experience in manufacturing and industry

Ted spent many years working in the Puget Sound region’s manufacturing and industrial community – beginning at his family’s Tacoma-based foundry, Fick Foundry Co. From there he spent many years at PACCAR, one of the Pacific Northwest’s primary manufacturers, holding leadership positions in both PACCAR and their division Kenworth. In 2000, Ted left the PNW and has since held multiple leadership positions in logistics and manufacturing companies. Most recently, he served as CEO of Polar Corporation, a trailer and component parts manufacturer based in Minnesota.

Ted brings direct experience manufacturing the type of products that depend on the Port of Seattle for export to global markets.

Skilled leader of diverse workforces

In his most recent position, he led an organization with multiple operating divisions and a workforce of 2,000 employees in both represented and non-represented positions – experience crucial to the CEO of the port.

Puget Sound commitment

Ted is a Tacoma native, and brings a deep commitment to the Puget Sound region. He understands and embraces the port’s role as an economic development leader for the region and state, and is excited to return to his home state to lead the Port of Seattle.

Education

Stanford University, Master of Science in Management, Sloan Fellow 1997
University of Puget Sound, Master of Business Administration 1984
University of Washington, Bachelor of Arts in Economics 1982