The Port of Los Angeles has announced two significant leadership appointments aimed at strengthening its operations and community connections.
Artie Mandel has been promoted to Director of Government Affairs, a role where he will oversee the Port’s efforts to collaborate with local, regional, state, and federal governments.
In his new position, Mandel will manage advocacy, legislative coordination, and coalition building, reporting to Avin Sharma, Senior Director of Workforce and Government Affairs.
“Artie has a long track record of bringing stakeholders together to tackle challenging policy issues,” said Sharma.
Mandel, who previously served as Director of Strategic Initiatives, brings a wealth of experience, having held key positions such as Chief of Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs for the City of Los Angeles, where he helped secure over $1 billion in state grants.
READ: Port of Los Angeles appoints new CFO
In a separate announcement, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved the appointment of Yolanda De La Torre to the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners.
De La Torre, a long-time Wilmington resident, has dedicated nearly three decades to community service, notably as the Executive Director of the Wilmington YMCA. Mayor Karen Bass highlighted De La Torre’s deep local roots and her extensive service to the Wilmington community, stating that her appointment would provide a critical local perspective to the board.
De La Torre replaces Mike Muñoz, fulfilling the requirement of having at least one representative from Wilmington on the Commission following the passing of Measure HH.
Her term begins on January 17, 2025.
