Portland, OR. — The Port of Portland has selected Alissa Mahar as its new Chief Financial Officer, with her tenure set to begin April 14, 2026.
Mahar most recently served as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President for Business & Finance at Seattle Pacific University, where she oversaw institutional financial strategy, long-range capital planning, enterprise operations, and multi-year forecasting.
Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold praised Mahar’s leadership and experience.
“Alissa stood out immediately as a leader who balances tremendous technical skill and experience with a commitment to mission-driven leadership,” Robinhold said. “I’m confident she will be a strategic, inclusive, and disciplined steward of our financial future.”
Mahar brings a broad background in public sector and higher education finance, having previously held senior leadership roles with the University of Washington, Clackamas Community College, and the City of Portland.
Throughout her career, she has led major capital financing initiatives spanning transportation infrastructure, fire station improvements, affordable housing strategies, and development of academic and administrative facilities. She has also overseen enterprise risk management and large-scale system implementations, including Workday Finance and HR platforms.
“I’ve committed my career in service to communities across the Pacific Northwest,” Mahar said. “The Port of Portland’s commitment to helping local communities and economies thrive drew me to this role, and I’m excited to help craft financial strategies that sustain and expand its regional impact.”
In her new role, Mahar will report directly to the Executive Director and oversee both finance and information technology functions. The position plays a key role in guiding capital allocation, managing risk, advancing digital modernization, and ensuring public accountability.
A third-generation Oregonian, Mahar said she enjoys spending time with family, playing sports, and exploring the Pacific Northwest outside of work.
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