The Port of San Diego has made a strategic move by appointing Matthew Vespi, a seasoned public sector veteran with over two decades of experience, as its new Chief Administrative Officer. Vespi, whose public service spans a variety of key roles, will take the helm starting November 4, 2025. In a statement obtained by the Port of San Diego, President and CEO Scott Chadwick expressed his excitement about the new appointment, praising Vespi's leadership qualities and noting his track record of fostering collaboration and adaptability.
"As we welcome Matt Vespi to the Port of San Diego, I am absolutely thrilled to bring aboard a leader whose professionalism and experience of his caliber are second to none," Chadwick said via Port of San Diego press release. The new CAO is expected to quickly familiarize and take charge of several departments, including the Commissioner Services, District Clerk, Executive Office, and the IT teams. Vespi's recent role as the City of San Diego's Chief Financial Officer had him managing the city's finances during trying times, a tenure that didn't go unnoticed by Mayor Todd Gloria.
Mayor Gloria praised Vespi's impact on the City of San Diego's financial stewardship. He told the Port of San Diego, "Matt Vespi has been an outstanding steward of the City’s finances through some of our most challenging times. I’m grateful for his leadership and steady hand." Gloria also expressed optimism for Vespi's new role, where he is expected to advance a regional vision for San Diego's waterfront.
Before joining the City of San Diego, Vespi cut his teeth in finance roles across Central Florida, both in the public and private sectors. With a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida, Vespi brings a substantial academic background to the Port's leadership.
