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Charles D. Wurster Announces Resignation as President/CEO of the Port of San Diego

Friday, 24 September 2010
Contact: Ronald Powell (619) 400-4789 or (619) 665-2815

Charles D. Wurster, who has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Port of San Diego since January 2009, has announced his resignation.

Wurster said that while he has thoroughly enjoyed his association with the Port, its tenants and stakeholders, it is time for him to move on.

"I am proud to have been associated with such a talented and dedicated group of public servants. You have shown your dedication to the missions of the Port District, and persevered through challenging economic times," he said in a memo to Port employees dated September 24, 2010.

Although the Port of San Diego's revenues have been down the last two fiscal years, Wurster is credited with initiating a strict plan to balance the Port's budget. The plan included cutting back on Port consultants, limiting travel for Port employees, initiating a hiring freeze and implementing a one day a month work furlough. In addition, the Port has carried out other programs to increase revenues.

"We've accepted his resignation and we're thankful for the hard work that Charlie has given this organization," said Robert "Dukie" Valderrama, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. "He's gotten us through a very difficult budgetary cycle during the past year."

During his tenure as President, Wurster led Port staff on negotiations and plans for high-profile, multi-agency projects such as the North Embarcadero Visionary Plan and the proposed expansion of the San Diego Convention Center.

"We respect his desire to move on," said Valderrama." And we wish him all the success in the world."