Port authority hires new CEO

The Windsor Port Authority announced Tuesday that Steve Salmons has been hired to replace longtime CEO David Cree who will be retiring at the end of the month. Salmons most recently served as director of community and development services for the Town of Lakeshore since 2012.

“I think he will be great,” said Cree. “I think the transition will best smooth. He certainly has a lot of great experience.” Salmons will start his duties at the port authority during the final week of this month as part of the transition before taking over May 1. Cree, 67, is retiring after 33 years as CEO of the city ’s port authority. No salary was disclosed for leading the port authority, which is a federal entity under Transport Canada.

An outside firm was retained by the port authority to find a replacement for Cree. More than 40 applicants were said to have applied for the job before a shortlist was created and the board conducted interviews.

“Mr. Salmons has demonstrated leadership skills and accomplishments throughout his career, which ensures the continued success Port of Windsor has experienced under the leadership of David Cree,” said George Sandala, board chairman of the port authority. Salmons has held a variety of municipal and provincial administration jobs in his 25-year career. They include CEO of the Windsor Public Library, general manager of community services for the City of Windsor and senior policy adviser for the Ontario’s Transportation Ministry.