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Port of Los Angeles Promotes Strafford, Mandel

[ January 31, 2025   //   Gary G Burrows ]

            The Port of Los Angeles has appointed Jeffrey Strafford as chief financial officer and Artie Mandel as director of government affairs

            Strafford, a long-time City of Los Angeles employee, will oversee the port’s financial affairs, including accounting, debt and financial analysis, and financial planning and analysis divisions.

            Before joining the port as interim CFO last spring, He served as the port’s director of financial planning and analysis, overseeing staff across financial analysis and budget divisions. His duties included administering the port’s US$2.6 billion budget, improving fiscal systems at the nation’s busiest trade gateway.

            Prior to that, he was promoted to budget manager. Before joining the port in 2011, he served as the purchasing manager for the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, and as a tax compliance officer for the City of Los Angeles Office of Finance.

            “Jeff brings nearly three decades and an incredible resumé of work to this executive position, one that plays a key role in managing the port’s financial performance and strategic direction,” said Erica M. Calhoun, deputy executive director of finance and administration.

            As director of government affairs, Mandel will collaborate with local, regional, state and federal governments. His duties will involve advocacy, legislative coordination, grant funding identification and coalition building, among other responsibilities.

            Mandel previously served as the director of strategic initiatives. He will continue to report to Avin Sharma, senior director of workforce and government affairs.

            Prior to joining the port, he was chief of intergovernmental and legislative affairs for the City of Los Angeles, working with city departments and the city council to develop and execute the city’s legislative program. During his tenure he helped secure more than US$1 billion in state homelessness assistance and housing grants for the city.

            Previously, he served for 10 years on Capitol Hill as senior policy advisor for U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and legislative director for Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ), where he focused on tax, international trade and affordable housing policy.

            “His extensive background and understanding of government processes across all levels of government, along with his strong work ethic, are a tremendous asset to our Port. We look forward to seeing all he will be able to accomplish in this new role,” Sharma said.

Tags: Port of Los Angeles