By Mike De Felice

Kitsap Daily News

PORT ORCHARD – A locally-raised accountant started this week as the Port of Bremerton’s new chief financial officer.

Jeremiah Wiley, who grew up in Port Orchard and graduated from South Kitsap High School, comes to the position with 20 years of experience in accounting and finance.

“We’re so thrilled to add Jeremiah to our team. His experience and skills will be a great asset to the Port as we continue to build up the community and bring more family-wage jobs to the area,” Port CEO Jim Rothlin said.

“We’re excited to get him up to speed on all that we have happening this coming year — most importantly, our capital projects such as the Port Orchard marina breakwater, Bremerton Marina’s parking, and the new restaurant facility at the airport.”

Wiley’s communication skills, problem-solving, and technical abilities will help drive the Port to sustained success, Rothlin added.

As CFO, Wiley will be responsible for directing the Port’s finance, accounting, human resources, and risk management operations. He will also serve as the Port auditor and treasurer.

“I was drawn to the position because I enjoy the technical requirements of governmental accounting and financial reporting,” the 44-year-old Wiley said. “I also admire the Port’s mission to build infrastructure to allow more businesses to move here.”

The new financial officer earlier handled controller duties for Capital Development Company in Lacey, at Pope Resources, a timber company in Poulsbo, and at Housing Kitsap, a public housing authority.

Wiley graduated from the University of Washington-Tacoma campus and is a certified public accountant. He completed the Leadership Kitsap course in 2013 and previously served as a volunteer on the citizen advisory board for Bremerton Parks Commission.

The Port of Bremerton comprises Olympic View Industrial Business Park, Bremerton Marina, Port Orchard Marina, Bremerton National Airport, and various piers, parks and boat launches.