The Ventura Port District announces the promotion of Brian Pendleton to Deputy General Manager. Hired in June 2015 as Business Operations Manager for the District ─ home to Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands National Park ─ Pendleton has led its economic development strategy and supervised various department managers. In his new position, Pendleton serves as second in command to oversee District operations.
Among his many accomplishments as Business Operations Manager, Pendleton helped create the process to bring two major new developments to vacant lots at Ventura Harbor: an “Adventure Lodge” proposed alongside Ventura Harbor Village and a boutique hotel proposed for the end of Spinnaker Drive near the Harbor entry. Ventura Port District officials are currently working with the developer of both projects, H. Parker Hospitality, which owns Fess Parker Winery.
Pendleton has also been instrumental in managing federal grant funds awarded to the District to advance the Ventura Shellfish Enterprise. The proposed VSE project seeks to permit offshore aquaculture operations for sustainably grown mussels near Ventura Harbor.
Pendleton has extensive economic development experience, a bachelor’s degree in public administration and a master’s degree in real estate development, both from the University of Southern California. He also is a licensed real estate professional in California and a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers, the Urban Land Institute and the California Association for Local Economic Development.
He and his wife, Arlene, and their three children are longtime Ventura County residents.
“Brian has brought a great deal of professionalism and dedication to the District,” said Oscar Peña, Ventura Port District General Manager. “We are fortunate to have such a creative and resourceful thinker as part of our executive staff. His promotion to Deputy General Manager will certainly benefit the District in the future.”
“This is an exciting time for the District,” said Pendleton. “We are working closely with current and proposed business partners to provide a truly vibrant harbor for this community.”
Ventura Port District’s mission is to provide a safe and navigable harbor and a seaside destination that benefits residents, visitors, fishermen and boaters seeking to enjoy Ventura Harbor’s exceptional facilities, events and services.