Next week, a new executive director takes over the helm of the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association.
Industry veteran Heather Stebbings is expected to start in the leadership role on Feb. 15, taking over for outgoing Executive Director Kristin Meira, who held the position for a decade. Meira is heading to American Cruise Lines to serve as the company’s director of government affairs, Pacific Northwest.
Stebbings brings 15 years of experience in the advocacy and public policy in the Puget Sound, including 13 years as PNWA’s communications and government relations director. She also served as marine services and government liaison for Shaver Transportation.
Stebbings earned her bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Connecticut and worked for various area transportation and public policy organizations, including committees on the city of Portland, the Portland Business Alliance and Oregon Business and Industry, the announcement said.
“Heather is a proven, well-rounded leader with deep experience and relationships in our industry, across the Northwest, and in Washington, D.C.,” said Washington Grain Commission CEO and PNWA Board President Glen Squires. “We are pleased to welcome her back to the PNWA team and are enthusiastic about her leadership and the continued success of the association.”