Don Kelley, Port of Tacoma Director of Accounting and Port Auditor

Kelley comes from the Port of Seattle, where he served as Senior Manager, General Accounting since 2020.

Don Kelley, who previously worked for 21 years at the Port of Tacoma, has returned as Director of Accounting and Port Auditor. He will manage the overall accounting functions for the Port and The Northwest Seaport Alliance. 

Kelley comes from the Port of Seattle, where he served as Senior Manager, General Accounting since 2020. He is a licensed CPA and Certified Global Management Accountant and earned an MBA from Saint Martin's University. 

“I’m excited to be returning to the Port of Tacoma where I spent most of my career,” Kelley said. “I look forward to the many challenges and opportunities ahead and am thankful to be able to reconnect with so many wonderful colleagues.”  

Kelley first began at the Port of Tacoma in 1999 as an accountant. He was promoted twice, serving as Manager, Financial Accounting & Deputy Auditor between 2007 and 2020. 

“We are so pleased to welcome Don back to the Port of Tacoma in a new leadership role. His deep knowledge of ports and the public sector and his commitment to excellence makes him an outstanding addition to our team,” said Port of Tacoma Executive Director Eric Johnson. 

Kelley resumed his tenure at the Port on November 16, allowing him transition time with his predecessor Darren Arakaki, who retires at the end of the year.