Port of Coos Bay Hires First Female CEO

Lanelle Comstock. Photo: Port of Coos Bay.

The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay has named Lanelle Comstock its new CEO, making her the first woman to hold the top job at the port. Also, Melissa Cribbins is now the head of the seaport’s Pacific Coast Intermodal Port Project, Coos Bay announced Aug. 13.

Comstock, who had been serving as interim CEO since June, has worked in various roles at the port for the past 12 years, including chief administration officer.

“Her appointment as permanent CEO is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to the port’s mission of fostering economic development and sustainable operations,” the port said in a statement.

Comstock said she’s honored to continue leading the port as it builds on its successes and works toward the future with the community.

“I’m excited about where the port is going and feel fortunate to lead such a great team,” she said. “Our focus remains on supporting local industries, collaborating with the community and maintaining our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

Cribbins, a former Coos County Commissioner, has been named executive director for the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port project, which aims to be a completely electrified ship-to-rail facility, able to process about 1.2 million TEUs annually.

The facility is projected to create about 9,400 direct and indirect jobs and bolsters the port’s presence as a U.S. and global trade hub.

“Cribbins’ extensive experience in public service, executive leadership and community engagement makes her the ideal candidate to spearhead this transformative initiative,” the port said.

By Karen Robes Meeks