Tay Yoshitani is the new chief executive officer of the Port of Seattle, replacing Mic Dinsmore, who resigned after 16 years on the job.

Yoshitani previously led ports in Oakland and Baltimore and was deputy executive director of the Port of Los Angeles. He's expected to report for work in March after finishing previous professional commitments on the East Coast.

Yoshitani, who was in Seattle for the unanimous commission vote, said he is looking forward to "one of the most interesting jobs in the country.

"There is a lot going on in all aspects of the Port operations," he said. "Working with business and various layers of government is a fascinating challenge beyond that of the private sector."

Dinsmore will remain at the helm of the Port through the transition period.

Born in Japan, Yoshitani is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and holds a master's degree in business administration from Harvard University. He received airborne and ranger training in the Army prior to service in Vietnam and ultimately reached the rank of captain.

Currently Yoshitani works as a consultant and lobbyist in Washington, D.C.

"We are thrilled to have found a candidate with Mr. Yoshitani's great experience in the complex areas we focus on as a port," said Port of Seattle Commission President Patricia Davis. "He has run a seaport and an airport, and has broad experience in real estate development."

"The Port of Seattle has long been a leader in its commitment to international trade and regional economic development," Yoshitani said. "Its role in the international trading system is a national asset. I look forward to continuing and building on that success."