Ann Phillips Nominated for MARAD Administrator

President Joe Biden has nominated Rear Adm. Ann Phillips to be the next administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration. Phillips served 31 years in the U.S. Navy and is currently the first special assistant to the governor of Virginia for coastal adaptation and protection.

Phillips is a leader in the field of coastal resilience and climate impact on national security at the regional, national and international level. In her current appointment as the first special assistant to the governor of Virginia for coastal adaptation and protection, she is building a collaborative approach to address the impact of coastal flooding across the commonwealth, including the development of Virginia’s first Coastal Resilience Master Plan.

Prior to her current appointment, Phillips served nearly 31 years on active duty in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a rear admiral. Her final flag command was as commander, Expeditionary Strike Group TWO, including 14 ships and 10 subordinate commands all the amphibious expeditionary forces on the East Coast of the United States.

Leadership Changes Taking Place at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding

After more than 37 years with Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding (FBS), Todd Thayse is retiring. Over the last decade, he served as vice president and general manager.

Thayse will remain at FBS through mid-January to have a smooth transition with the incoming vice president and general manager, Craig Perciavalle. After that, Thayse will have an advisory role within Fincantieri Marine Group.

Perciavalle comes to Fincantieri after serving as the president of Austal USA in Mobile, Ala. Perciavalle has an extensive background in the shipbuilding and repair industry, having worked at several Gulf Coast shipyards throughout his career. He is a graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, N. Y., with a Bachelor of Science degree in marine engineering systems.

Debbie Murray Promoted to ACPA Acting President

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities Board of Directors has promoted Debbie Murray acting president of the organization. Murray previously served as director of policy and regulatory affairs. She steps into shoes previously filled by Wendy Zatylny, who is now country manager for SBA Communications Canada.

Debbie has over 25 years in policy and government relations, the last 10 in the marine sector, and extensive relationships with ACPA’s various stakeholders.