William D. Friedman

Executive Director, Ports of Indiana

The Indiana Port Commission appointed Will Friedman as executive director of the Ports of Indiana in 2000. He establishes, in collaboration with the Board of Commissioners, the overall strategic vision and direction for the organization, and for achieving these strategic outcomes through effective leadership of the senior management team and outreach to government, industry and trade associations. Friedman returned to Indiana from the Port of Seattle, where he last served as director of the seaport’s strategic planning program. After joining the Port of Seattle in 1990, Friedman held a number of key management positions, including senior harbor planner, director of communication and administration, and general manager of cargo piers and industrial properties. Prior to joining the Port of Seattle, Friedman served for two years as director of planning and grants for the Ports of Indiana. Early in his career he managed the zoning enforcement office for the City of Indianapolis. A native of Bemidji, Minnesota, Friedman grew up in Indianapolis. He earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Public Affairs degrees from Indiana University. Friedman and his wife, Carolyn, have two sons.