Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority Appoints Interim Executive Director to Permanent Position

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Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority executive director Kyle Burleson
PHOTO COURTESY OF DETROIT/WAYNE COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY

The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority (DWCPA) has announced that interim executive director Kyle Burleson has become the agency’s permanent executive director. The decision was unanimously approved by the DWCPA Board of Directors and went into effect on May 7.

Burleson was named interim executive director on Aug. 1, 2017, upon the departure of former executive director John Loftus. During his tenure, Burleson focused on engaging and fostering relationships with community partners, constituents, and other organizations.

He was previously the DWCPA’s deputy director. Burleson’s new term will run for three years with an option to extend the contract for an additional year.

“Our agency plays a vital role within southeast Michigan’s economic vitality, but meaningful change will only come about if the key players are working together toward a common goal,” says Burleson. “I’m excited to be able to continue my work with the DWCPA and be an essential partner in building greater Detroit’s future.”

Prior to joining the DWCPA, Burleson acted as the legislative director for Congresswoman Candice S. Miller, where he handled a legislative portfolio consisting of judicial, energy, and environmental issues. Burleson has a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from the University of Michigan, and a doctorate in law from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.