Nelson Holmberg

Vice President
Innovation

Nelson Holmberg is the vice president, innovation at the Port of Ridgefield.

His career spans nearly 30 years, mostly working in public and media relations and port administration. Nelson was executive director at the Port of Woodland (2010-14) and communications manager at the Port of Vancouver (2007-10) before spending nearly a year and a half at BergerABAM where he led the public involvement practice in the firm’s Vancouver office.

As vice president, innovation at the Port of Ridgefield, Nelson is charged with “coloring outside the lines” in helping to lead the port’s business development efforts and partnering with startups and entrepreneurs in the area. He also leads the port’s legislative and congressional activities, and helps develop strategy for the port’s business lines, partnerships, and economic development initiatives.

His career includes executive stints with the World Baseball Classic (2006), Portland Power, and Atlanta Glory. His professional experience also includes work as the Senior PR Account Manager at Koopman Ostbo Marketing Communications, and ownership of his own public relations consultancy.

Nelson has served on several boards and committees across the community including as chair of the City of Vancouver Parking Advisory Committee and is currently a project team mentor for the LCC class of 2017. He has also served on the boards of the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments (vice chair, 2012-14), Cowlitz Economic Development Council, Clark County Family YMCA, and many other non-profits. He has been recognized with awards throughout his career and has been commended by his colleagues for his results in working with the media.

He is co-founder and current president of the Rotary Club of Three Creeks.

Nelson lives in Vancouver, Wash., with his wife Susanne and their two dogs Maddie and Lexi.