Personnel Changes at the Port of Fernandina

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
July 21, 2017 3:30 p.m.

 

Laura DiBella

Laura DiBella, Executive Director of the Nassau County Economic Development Board, has now taken on an additional role: Port Director of the Port of Fernandina.

Appointed to this position by the Ocean Highway and Port Authority (OHPA) via Resolution 2017-5 on June 14, 2017, DiBella said that she sees herself as pinch hitting for OHPA in the wake of Val Schwec’s departure for as long as they deem it necessary. She said, “The role is very complimentary to what I currently do and is what I am beginning to realize as the missing link to my recruiting efforts in a way. So I am very thankful for the appointment at the end of the day – and love every minute of it.  The Port of Fernandina is a very special asset to our county that should be treasured, we are lucky to have it.”

DiBella, who according to OHPA Chair Adam Salzburg, is already working to bring in more business to the Port, is serving with no salary.

Other personnel changes following the recent departure of Val Schwec as Commercial Director and Terminal Manager-Nassau Terminal, were recently announced by Kinder Morgan.

Scott Schlueter

Terminal Manager – Nassau Terminal

Kinder Morgan is proud to announce the appointment of Scott Schlueter to the position of Terminal Manager- Nassau Terminal. Scott brings with him twenty years of professional experience in the Maritime industry ranging from offloading some of the largest equipment modules in Prudhoe Bay, AK to moving supertankers in Saint Croix, US Virgin Islands.  His background and knowledge with terminals and ports both domestic and foreign bring a diverse perspective and approach to Nassau Terminal. Scott graduated from Seattle Maritime Academy and holds a Chief Engineer’s license with the United States Coast Guard and the Republic of Panama.  As a veteran Paratrooper in the United States Army and current Master Scuba Diver, Scott enjoys living life to the fullest with his wife and family.

Stephen DuBose

Commercial Director – Nassau Terminal

Stephen DuBose has assumed the role of Commercial Director for Nassau Terminal. Stephen has held a number of positions in the maritime terminal industry over the years including General Manager, Terminal Manager, Chief Operating Officer, and Area Manager, and has worked in many public and private marine terminals throughout the Gulf, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast US. Stephen graduated from Clemson University and holds a degree in Transportation and Logistics Management / Business Administration. In his spare time, Stephen enjoys spending time on the water with his wife and 2 children, or getting out into the woods in search of his next outdoor adventure.

Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.