R.G. Edmonson | Sep 15, 2009 11:38AM EDT
The White House on Monday named Richard A. Lidinsky Jr. as chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, the commission announced.
Lidinsky was the first Obama administration appointee to the FMC and was sworn in as a commissioner on July 31. He replaces Joseph E. Brennan, who was acting chairman. Brennan will continue as a commissioner. As chairman, Lidinsky becomes the commission’s administrative head.
Lidinsky is a well-respected member of the Washington maritime community. He has been in private practice as an attorney and international trade consultant. He started his career as an attorney on the FMC general counsel staff, and served on the staff of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee. He was also counsel and director of tariffs for the Maryland Port Administration.
According to Brennan, Lidinsky “is as well-prepared as any commissioner has been upon taking office.”
During his Senate confirmation, Lidinsky said that the FMC “has a key role in assisting the economic recovery of our entire ocean waterborne commerce transportation industry.” The FMC also plays a role in environmental protection and guards against unfair foreign competition.
Lidinsky will serve as chairman until June 2012.
Contact R.G. Edmonson at bedmonson@joc.com.