Christopher Neal, a seasoned security director who oversaw the renovation of Portland International Airport, has been appointed as Multnomah County’s next chief operations officer by Chair Jessica Vega Pederson.
A five-month search to fill the position is concluded by the selection.In September, Serena Cruz departed. Under the chair’s direction, the county’s chief operational officer oversees the projects and programs implemented by the government’s 6,000 employees.
Vega Pederson said in a statement on Friday that Chris Neal is a problem-solver with a wide range of operational experience and the capacity to engage, inspire, and drive his partners and coworkers.
According to officials, Neal, who will earn $326,510 annually, emerged as the front-runner out of 84 applicants. Neal and nonprofit director Libra Forde were named as the county’s finalists for the position earlier this month.
After working for the Port of Portland for eight years, Neal oversaw security and the $2.15 billion renovation of Portland International Airport. Neal had previously worked for the Transportation Security Administration for eight years, moving up the ranks to become the deputy federal security director in Oregon in 2015.
Following in the footsteps of his parents, who were both in the U.S. Navy, Neal joined the U.S. Army at the age of 18, according to the county. He was tasked with accompanying former President George W. Bush as a member of the Presidential Honor Guard.
The appointment will be approved by a vote of the Board of Commissioners on March 13. Travis Graves, the interim chief operating officer, will be replaced by Neal as deputy chief operating officer. According to the county, Graves will resume his prior position.
During a job interview, Neal stated, “I want people to know I recognize the work you are doing,” despite the county’s difficult past five years. I recognize you, your efforts, and the chance we have to help our neighborhood.
Austin De Dios reports on programs, politics, and other topics in Multnomah County. You can reach him at @AustinDeDios, [email protected], or 503-319-9744.
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