Geoff Plunket joined Port Otago 28 years ago as its financial controller, then carried out a variety of finance and operational roles, including deputy chief executive, before his appointment as chief executive in 2004, replacing Rene Bakx.
Mr Plunket (58) has overseen the upgrading of port infrastructure, ranging from new, larger cranes, three tugs, large warehousing expansion and most recently a channel-deepening project, all worth upwards of $150million.
The port's 100% owner, the Otago Regional Council, has during the past 12 years received dividends totalling $103.5million.
Port Otago chairman Dave Faulkner said Mr Plunket's retirement plan was announced early to ensure there would be ample time to find a replacement, and to allow for a smooth transition in leadership during 2017.
