Kent Britton, CFO of the Port of Corpus Christi, will take over as interim CEO on June 1, replacing Sean Strawbridge, who resigned following a conflict with commissioners over alleged  spending of port funds.

Kent Britton
Kent Britton. (Source: Port of Corpus Christi)

The port had previously said Strawbridge would remain in his post until June 2.

Britton joined the port as financial controller in 2017, becoming CFO in 2019. Previously, he was CFO of Sherwin-Alumina Co. and served in executive roles for Blackbaud, a software provider to nonprofits, and Alcoa.

“Kent Britton is a stalwart professional,” Charles W. Zahn Jr., the commission’s chairman, said in a statement. “He brings more than three decades of experience and a sharpened business acumen that will serve him well in his role as interim CEO for the Port of Corpus Christi.”

The port has engaged Shey-Harding Associates to conduct a nationwide search for a full-time CEO.

Strawbridge was reportedly accused of “exuberant spending” on travel, personal and party expenses during a monthly meeting of the commissioners. He denied any unethical behavior or misuse of funds.