Katie Gerard

Senior Director, Human Resources

Established HR Leader in the Public Sector

With more than 22 years of experience in Human Resources, Katie Gerard brings an extensive background in public sector Human Resources (HR) leadership to the Port. She previously served as Director of HR in Olympia for Thurston County where she regularly worked with their elected officials. Prior to her role with the county, she gained expertise in establishing innovative change across four state agencies, including WA State Parks and Recreation, Department of Personnel, Office of Financial Management, and Department of Revenue. At the state, she served as Human Resources (HR) Director in two agencies as well as Planning and Strategy Section Chief of another state agency.  Her experience includes work in recruiting, HRIS system implementation, and substantial HR policy changes.

Gerard reports to the Port’s Executive Director and oversees 45 employees serving a workforce of more than 2,000 through the full array of HR functions, including: Talent Acquisition; HR Business Partners; Intern/Veteran Fellow outreach programs; Organizational Development; Talent Development and Diversity; Employee Relations; HR Communications; HR Information Systems; Compensation; Benefits and Employee Recognition; and Employee Health and Safety.

Education

Bachelor of Arts Degree, Liberal Arts, the Evergreen State College