Port Tampa Bay CEO Anderson to chair Florida Ports Council

The Florida Ports Council yesterday elected Port Tampa Bay Chief Executive Officer Paul Anderson as its chairman to succeed Port of Fernandina Director Val Schwec, whose term is ending.

A former federal maritime commissioner, Anderson has held high-profile leadership positions in the public and private sectors over the past three decades. Prior to joining Port Tampa Bay in 2013, he served as the CEO of the Jacksonville Port Authority.

Anderson also is chairman of the Florida Ports Financing Commission, and has held leadership roles within the American Association of Port Authorities. He also serves on the boards of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Florida.

"Paul Anderson has been an invaluable member of the Florida Ports Council both as legislative co-chair and as vice chairman. His extensive experience at the state and federal levels will be a great asset to our organization," said Doug Wheeler, president and CEO of the Florida Ports Council, in a press release.

The Florida Ports Council is the professional association of the state's 15 public seaports.