Phil Lutes has been named deputy managing director of the Seaport Division at the Port of Seattle. His first day on the job was Monday, Feb. 5.

Before joining the Port, Lutes spent 28 years with Westwood Shipping Lines where his last post was director of marine operations. His responsibilities included managing Westwood's vessel fleet, vessel chartering, cargo-handling operations, and the company's new vessel building program. Lutes has traveled extensively around the globe developing relationships with customers and suppliers.

"I'm happy to be joining the Port of Seattle at a time of tremendous opportunity for growth," Lutes said. "This port is positioned to capture a significant portion of the expected growth in trans-Pacific trade and I'm eager to play a role in that effort."

Lutes also worked for Seatrain Shipping Lines, Central Gulf Lines and Tidewater Marine, all in New Orleans. He is a graduate of the Maine Maritime Academy, where he received a third-mate's license and a commission in the U.S. Naval Reserve upon graduation.

"Phil brings a solid background in the maritime industry nationally as well as here in the Pacific Northwest, and he understands how our customers operate," said Charlie Sheldon, seaport managing director. "We're fortunate to have recruited someone of his caliber."