SeaPort Manatee’s senior management understands the unique features and benefits of the Tampa Bay region’s maritime community and is deeply engaged in the ever-changing world of international trade.
Please click here to view SeaPort Manatee’s organizational chart
Executive Director
Carlos Buqueras
With three decades of distinguished Florida port leadership, SeaPort Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras is globally renowned for his visionary achievements in all facets of seaport business development and operations, including containerized, bulk and breakbulk cargos, as well as cruise and ferry industry prominence.
Deputy Executive Director
Dave Sanford
As Deputy Executive Director, Mr. Sanford assists the Executive Director in port operations, maintenance, security and overall harbor management. He also assists the Executive Director in trade development, special projects and new infrastructure planning.
Senior Director of Engineering & Construction
George Isiminger
Mr. Isiminger is responsible for design and oversight of all construction projects at SeaPort Manatee. He also handles securing environmental permits and ensures compliance with local, state and federal environmental requirements.
gisiminger@seaportmanatee.com
Senior Director of Business Administration & Finance
Denise Stufflebeam
As the Senior Director of Business Administration and Finance, Mrs. Denise Stufflebeam manages the daily administration of the port’s accounting and finance functions. She also oversees the information technology department and its operations. She manages the operating, capital and grant project budgets and prepares the annual budget. She coordinates and writes the agendas for the monthly Port Authority meetings and oversees the port’s risk management.
dstufflebeam@seaportmanatee.com
Director of Operations & Maintenance
Shawn Smith
Mr. Shawn Smith is responsible for all aspects of the operation and maintenance departments, including facilities, fleet, grounds, vessel traffic, cargo placement, scales, and applicable billings.
ssmith@seaportmanatee.com
Director of Public Safety & Security
David St. Pierre
As Director of Public Safety & Security, Mr. David St.Pierre is responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of the port’s security and emergency action plans and manages the daily activities of the SeaPort Manatee security department.
dstpierre@seaportmanatee.com
Director of Communications &
Public Relations
Virginia Zimmermann
Mrs. Zimmermann is responsible for the development and implementation of SeaPort Manatee’s communications and community engagement initiatives.
vzimmermann@seaportmanatee.com
Director of Planning & Project Development
Dan Fitz-Patrick
Mr. Fitz-Patrick is responsible for the planning and development of port facilities and infrastructure at SeaPort Manatee.
dfitzpatrick@seaportmanatee.com