The Port of Bremerton will soon be looking for a new CEO.

The current Chief Executive Officer Tim Thomson announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of the year.

“The rumor’s out there and I want to confirm that I do plan to retire,” Thomson said. “I’ve made the decision and the sole reason is that I want to spend more time with my family.”

Thomson said he has parents in their 80s and 90s and grandchildren and he wants to be able to travel to see them.

“I’ll be 65 next year and it’s time,” he said.

Thomson has been the top ranking official at the Port of Bremerton for 14 years. He came to the port in August 1999 and has been credited with making the port operations more professional.

The port owns the Bremerton International Airport, the industrial park at the airport and marinas in Bremerton and Port Orchard.

Board Chairman Larry Stokes said the board would immediately begin putting together a plan for choosing a replacement. The board had an executive session Tuesday for personnel reasons but did not disclose whether it was about the CEO’s replacement.

“We wish you well in your retirement,” said Stokes, “and we understand that time for your family is very important.”

He also wished him happy birthday because Tuesday was his 64th birthday.

Port Commissioner Roger Zabinski said he appreciated Thomson’s work.

“You’ve been a valuable member of our team,” he said.

Commissioner Axel Strakeljahn said he was surprised at Thomson’s announcement.

“I am a bit surprised,” he said. “You are the face of the port and have been for many years. I just want you to know how respected you are. Your contributions have been immense.”