Director of Planning & Governmental Affairs

Port of Palm Beach•Riviera Beach, FL

About The Position

The Director of Planning & Development is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing the Port’s strategic growth, infrastructure development, and long-term economic sustainability. This position is primarily responsible for the identification, pursuit, acquisition, and administration of local, state, and federal grants, which comprise the majority of the role. The Director leads the Port’s funding strategy by aligning capital improvement needs with available grant opportunities and legislative priorities. This position works closely with executive leadership, government agencies, consultants, and internal departments to secure funding and deliver projects that maximize the Port’s assets, operational efficiency, and regional economic impact.

Requirements

Advanced grant writing, research, and analytical skills.
Strong financial, economic, and strategic analysis capabilities.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presentation to executive leadership and public bodies.
Ability to manage multiple complex projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Strong leadership and collaboration skills with the ability to work across departments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with GIS and/or CAD preferred.
Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with government agencies, stakeholders, and partners.
Strong knowledge of transportation, maritime, or infrastructure funding programs.
Bachelor's degree in Business, Public Administration, Urban Planning or related field
5+ years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience.

Nice To Haves

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is strongly preferred.
Strong working knowledge of and established relationships with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), particularly related to grant funding programs and project coordination, are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and prioritize federal, state, and local grant opportunities applicable to Port infrastructure and operations.
Lead the development, writing, and submission of competitive grant applications (e.g., USDOT, MARAD, FEMA, FDOT, and other funding agencies).
Manage the full life cycle of grants including application development, budgeting, compliance, reporting, and closeout.
Coordinate with engineering, finance, operations, and external consultants to develop grant-ready capital projects.
Monitor federal and state legislative activity to identify emerging funding opportunities.
Ensure compliance with all grant requirements, including procurement, reporting, and audit standards.
Track grant performance metrics and ensure timely submission of required documentation and deliverables.
Present grant-funded initiatives and planning efforts to the Board, stakeholders, and community groups.
Coordinate with tenants and partners to assess operational needs and growth opportunities.
Develop and implement short- and long-term strategic plans to support Port growth and infrastructure expansion.
Analyze land use, facility capacity, and infrastructure needs to support future development.
Review development proposals, site plans, and infrastructure improvements for compliance with applicable regulations.
Participate in public meetings or hearings to explain planning proposals, to gather feedback from those affected by projects, or to achieve consensus on project designs.
Prepare feasibility studies, economic impact analysis, and business case evaluations.
Support the development and prioritization of the Port’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Prepare reports, and analysis related to cargo trends, financial performance, and infrastructure utilization.
Serve as the liaison with funding agencies and maintain strong governmental relationships.
Represent the Port at legislative meetings, committee hearings, and industry events.
Monitor and analyze proposed legislation, policies, and regulatory changes that may impact Port operations, funding opportunities, and development initiatives.
Track Legislation that affects Ports both State and Federal.