Olympia, WA – The Port of Olympia is pleased to announce the hiring of Mike Reid as the new Director of Community and Economic Development for the Port of Olympia. A lifelong Olympian and respected figure in the local economic development community, Reid returns to the Port after seven years as the City of Olympia’s Economic Development Director and a previous decade of service at the Port.
During his tenure with the City of Olympia, Reid played a pivotal role in leading the city’s pandemic economic recovery efforts, spearheading various downtown improvement initiatives, and managing several city real estate projects. Notably, he facilitated a partnership with Habitat for Humanity to create over 100 affordable homeownership opportunities. Reflecting on his experience, Reid shared, “I cherished my time at the city and am immensely proud of our accomplishments. Contributing to community and workforce development initiatives in my hometown was an extraordinary opportunity.”
Reid’s journey with the Port began in 2007, where he first served as the Property Development Manager before being promoted to the Business Development Senior Manager. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in several key projects, including the land sale to the City of Olympia for the Hands On Children’s Museum—an experience that solidified his appreciation for the Port’s potential impact on the community.
“In that project, I saw the incredible value that an organization like the Port can have on this community,” Reid reflected. “I know without pause or hesitation that the Port of Olympia can continue bringing incredible value to our community because I have worked directly on multiple projects that have done just that.”
With nearly 20 years in public service, Reid brings a wealth of knowledge about the Port’s operations and established relationships with local partners. His familiarity with the community and its needs positions him to make an immediate, positive impact on the Port’s current initiatives and business lines.
“I believe that we all want the Port to provide a return on investment not just in monetary value, but also a community value felt through the growth of living wage jobs, improved access to community amenities, and a cleaner and healthier environment,” Reid stated.
Reid expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the Port, saying, “I am beyond grateful to once again be a part of the Port, an organization I have always loved and been passionate about. I truly feel fortunate to be in a position where the timing and opportunity align with my experience and skillset.”
In addition to his professional achievements, Reid is actively involved in the community, having served on various volunteer boards, including the Washington Center for Performing Arts, Thurston County United Way, and Experience Olympia and Beyond.
A proud graduate of Olympia’s public school system, Reid earned his Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of San Diego. His commitment to the community is evident in both his professional and personal endeavors, and he is eager to bring his expertise back to the Port of Olympia.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Mike Reid back to the Port of Olympia,” said Port Executive Director, Alex Smith. “His experience, passion for our community, leadership and proven track record in economic development will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the Port’s role as a vital community asset.”
Reid officially steps into his role on January 8 and is looking forward to immediately collaborating with community members, stakeholders, and local businesses to foster growth and development in the region.
