(SEATTLE) — John Parrott assumed the role of president and CEO of Foss Maritime on Jan. 1 after successfully completing a four-month transition announced last July. Parrott joined Foss in January 2016 as chief operating officer; in August he assumed the role of president from retiring President and CEO Paul Stevens.
"We're fortunate to have such experienced maritime professionals and leaders within our companies," said Tim Engle, president of Saltchuk, Foss' parent company. "John's contributions at TOTE Maritime and his 28 years of experience both on the water and shoreside give him a unique perspective that has served us well. I am truly excited to see John lead Foss as it continues to innovate and deliver on its promise of safe, reliable service to our customers."
Parrott completed a "listening tour" in early 2016, which included visiting Foss employees at work throughout the company. He visited with mariners on workboats in the Gulf of Alaska, California, Hawaii and Washington and craftspeople building and repairing ships at Foss' Seattle and Rainier, Ore., shipyards. Parrott begins the year with a focus on enhancing communication and efficiency within the 127-year-old company.
"It's a great honor to lead Foss and work with the talented and dedicated maritime professionals that make it such an amazing company," said Parrott. "We have an exciting road ahead of us."
On Jan. 1, upon retirement from Foss, Stevens transitioned to a new role at Saltchuk's corporate home office. As senior vice president and managing director, Stevens will support various strategic initiatives currently underway and will help support Saltchuk's growth activities.
