Veteran executive Neepaporn Boungjaktha (pronounced Nee-Pa-Pawn Boing-Juk-Tah) is the new managing director of the Port of Seattle’s Economic Development Division, the port announced Dec. 4.
Boungjaktha, who was chosen through a nationwide search conducted by executive search firm Jorgenson Pace, joined the port after serving as an executive director for the Snohomish County (Wash.) Executive Office.
She also was previously the managing director of global trade and investment at Greater Seattle Partners, and served as vice president of global engagement and other roles at the Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Boungjaktha attended the University of Washington, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies, according to the port.
“As the Port of Seattle looks to build a port for the future, a clear vision of how economic development through real estate, economic opportunities for businesses of all kinds and support of regional travel and tourism is essential,” Boungjaktha said. “I look forward to bringing my experience working at both county and regional economic development and trade organizations to the port to bring that vision to fruition.”
Port Executive Director Steve Metruck said the port looks forward to Boungjaktha’s leadership and strong regional knowledge.
“In this role, (Boungjaktha) will be focused on setting a vision for the port’s economic development future including developing and expanding its real estate portfolio, expanding economic opportunity with a focus on equity and sustainability, and working with our partners at the Northwest Seaport Alliance,” Metruck said.
