The search is underway for a permanent executive director for the Port of Coupeville.

Interim Director Jan Marc Jouas told port commissioners Wednesday that it’s time they start advertising for his replacement.

Jouas accepted the interim position in October. The initial agreement was for him to fill the position for four months.

A contract was later finalized setting the term at six months.

“So, there’s no amount of money that could keep you here?” Commissioner John Mishasek asked Jouas.

“It was never about the money,” Jouas replied. “It never was.

“There are some personal reasons I’d like to move on.”

Jouas’ is paid $6,000 monthly under his contract as interim director.

Last month, Jouas said he put in 190 hours in port work, but was compensated for only 109 of those hours.

Jouas said he understood that was what he was signing on for.

Jouas told the port commissioners that he doesn’t have another job waiting for him, and that he’s willing to work until April or May to ensure the port finds the right person for the job.

“I have a stake in this now,” he said. “I’d like to make sure that any progress I’ve made doesn’t come to a halt when someone else takes over.”

Targeted recruiting for a new director is needed for the position, the commissioners and Jouas agreed.

“Make sure we heavily market to the other 78 port districts in the state,” said Commissioner William Bell.

Jouas said he believes someone with a background similar to his, perhaps a retired naval officer with stakes in the community, might be a good choice.

He also suggested someone early in his or her career who specifically wants to work in ports may be a good option.

“There are good people out there and we’re going to find someone,” Jouas said.

The port commissioners have approved a starting salary of $60,000 annually for the next executive director and said they agree any candidate must have strong leadership and management skills.