Port of Cleveland Names Epstein President, CEO Pending Approval

Jeff Epstein, Cleveland's current chief of integrated development, has been selected as the next president and CEO of the Port of Cleveland, pending formal board approval, with his tenure beginning on October 15. Epstein brings over 20 years of experience in economic development, public-private partnerships, and urban investment, having overseen nearly 300 employees across four departments in Mayor Justin Bibb's administration. He has played a pivotal role in initiatives such as the Shore-to-Core-to-Shore tax increment financing strategy, the launch of the North Coast Waterfront Development Authority, and managing $175 million in American Rescue Plan funds. Epstein succeeds William Friedman, who left in December 2024, with interim CEO Dave Gutheil transitioning to chief operating officer. The Port of Cleveland is a major economic driver in the region, supporting 23,000 jobs and processing over 13 million tons of cargo annually, and Epstein's leadership is expected to focus on maritime operations, innovative financing, complex development projects, and enhancing the waterfront as both an economic and community asset. His appointment is widely seen as a strategic move to continue Cleveland's economic resurgence and waterfront revitalization.