Joel Valenzuela has been named director of maritime operations at the Port of San Diego.

Valenzuela was previously the department manager of maritime industry and trade relations at the Port. He assumed his new role July 19.

Valenzuela will direct the operations, maintenance and development of the Port's maritime facilities and infrastructure, including the Port's cargo and cruise terminals, public piers, wharves and docks.

He will also be responsible for ensuring maritime facilities' compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations, administering the Port Tariff, which contains provisions and rates applicable to all commercial maritime activity in San Diego Bay, as well as enforcing maritime lease agreements and contracts.

"We are pleased to name Joel as Director of Maritime Operations," said Charles Wurster, president and CEO of the Port.

"His experience with terminal management and international trade will help us rebuild our cargo numbers and increase revenue. Not only that, Joel has extensive employee and customer relations experience, which will enable him to effectively lead the Maritime Operations Department," Wurster added.

Valenzuela is a certified Professional Port Manager, having completed extensive training through the American Association of Port Authorities.