Oakland, Calif. \u2013 Jan. 28, 2026: The Port of Oakland announced the appointment of Justin Berton to serve as its new Director of Communications, effective January 28, 2026. Berton will serve as the agency\u2019s lead communications strategist and primary media liaison for the seaport, airport, commercial real estate, and utility holdings.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re thrilled to add Justin\u2019s expertise and deep knowledge of the Bay Area\u2019s media and government landscape,\u201d said Kristi McKenney, the Port of Oakland\u2019s Executive Director. \u201cWith Justin\u2019s leadership, we\u2019re looking forward to building a dynamic and proactive storytelling team that serves our community and all of the Port\u2019s stakeholders and keeps them well informed of the Port\u2019s progress.\u201d<\/p>\n
Berton previously worked at the Port of San Francisco and also served as the Director of Communications to Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf for five years. He was previously a journalist at the San Francisco Chronicle and East Bay Express. His media consultancy group, Berton Media, has created proactive media campaigns for regional civic leaders, government agencies, nonprofits, foundations, and private sector clients. He lives in Oakland with his wife, two daughters, dog, and two rabbits.<\/p>\n
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits, and environmental innovation as it decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports more than 98,000 regional jobs and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees the Oakland Airport (OAK), the Oakland Seaport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront, including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port of Oakland is Everyone\u2019s Port! Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland Airport through Facebook and Twitter or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n