May 2, 2008
GOVERNOR PATERSON RECOMMENDS CHRISTOPHER WARD TO BECOME PORT AUTHORITY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Governor David A. Paterson announced today that he will recommend Christopher O. Ward for appointment as the Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ).
“Chris Ward has developed extraordinary skills during his long career in both the public and private sectors,” said Governor Paterson. “I believe he will provide the visionary leadership needed to build and maintain a first-rate transportation and infrastructure system for the 21st century.”
“I am honored that Governor Paterson has asked me to serve as the Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey,” said Christopher Ward. “Building on the Port Authority’s legacy, I look forward to working with Chairman Coscia and the Port Authority board to continue to serve the infrastructure needs of the state and the region moving forward.”
Mr. Ward is currently the Managing Director of General Contractors Association of New York, Inc. Prior to joining General Contractors Association of New York, Mr. Ward served as CEO (2005-2006) and as Director of Business Development (1996-1997) of American Stevedoring, Inc. He served as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection from 2002 to 2005 and also as Chief of Planning and External Affairs and Director of Port Development for the Port Authority from 1997 to 2002.
Mr. Ward was Senior Vice President for Transportation and Commerce of the New York City Economic Development Corporation from 1992 to 1996 and an Assistant Commissioner for the New York City Department of Telecommunications and Energy from 1988 to 1992. He also served as Director of Research for the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs from 1982 to 1988.
Mr. Ward holds a B.A. from MacAlester College and a Master’s in Theology from Harvard University.
As Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Chris Ward’s annual salary will be $286,702. This position is subject to Port Authority board approval.
