FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 4, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mike Hogan
(360) 676-2500

Port of Bellingham and Executive Director Rob Fix Part Ways; Tiffany DeSimone Named Interim Director

The Port of Bellingham and Executive Director Rob Fix have mutually agreed to part ways effective immediately. The Port Commission expressed appreciation for Fix’s contributions to the Port and the community during his 13 years of service as Executive Director. A recording of the June 3rd Port Commission meeting, including the Commission’s discussion about Fix’s departure, is available on the Port’s YouTube channel.

The Port Commission has appointed Tiffany DeSimone, the Port’s current Director of Maritime, to serve as Interim Executive Director. As Director of Maritime, DeSimone oversees a diverse portfolio of maritime operations and community-focused initiatives. In her leadership role, Tiffany manages the Bellingham Shipping Terminal, ensuring efficient cargo operations and supporting regional economic growth. She also directs operations at both Blaine and Squalicum Harbors, providing vital services for commercial and recreational marine users.  

Tiffany leads the Port’s internal maritime security programs, maintaining safe and compliant waterfront operations, and she coordinates community outreach to strengthen public engagement and transparency in maritime activities. Additionally, she oversees the Marine Life Center, advancing the Port’s educational mission and environmental stewardship.

DeSimone is currently leading one of the largest capital projects in Port history, the reactivation of the Bellingham Shipping Terminal.

“The Port has a stable and knowledgeable leadership team in place and a skilled, dedicated staff ready to advance the Commission’s vision and execute its strategic priorities,” said DeSimone.

About the Port of Bellingham

The Port is a countywide municipal corporation with a mission to fulfill the essential transportation and economic development needs of the region. Throughout Whatcom County, the Port owns, operates, and maintains approximately 1600 acres of property, including a shipping terminal, a cruise terminal, two marinas, industrial development areas, commercial uplands, parklands, shoreline public access areas, and an international airport. For more information about the Port of Bellingham, please visit www.portofbellingham.com  

        We acknowledge that Whatcom County is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples. They cared for the lands that included what we’d call the Puget Sound region, Vancouver Island and British Columbia since time immemorial. This gives us the great obligation and opportunity to learn how to care for our surrounding areas and all the natural and human resources we require to live. We express our deepest respect and gratitude for our indigenous neighbors, the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe, for their enduring care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.
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