Michael Meekins was named Port Executive Director in March 2023. He was promoted after serving less than three years as Director of Business Development. 

Meekins began his career at Port of Palm Beach in April 2020. He hit the ground running, despite starting at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Meekins played a pivotal role in numerous port-related projects such as the successful launch and rebranding of the cruise line now known as Margaritaville at Sea and the development of a one-of-a- kind cement storage facility operated by a construction materials company. In 2021, Meekins was entrusted with managing the Port’s operations department.  

Prior to joining the Port of Palm Beach, Meekins served as the Senior Director of Cruise and Port Operations at Port Canaveral, FL. He was responsible for coordinating all operations for 644 cruise ships per year and over 3.6 million passengers, which generated over $80 million in direct revenue for the Canaveral Port Authority and $648 million in indirect revenue for the Port. Meekins was also the direct contact for all cruise and cargo business development and was assigned to coordinate all operations within the port on a daily basis. This included multiple restaurants, stores, marinas, three public parks, two sets of boat ramps, a 300 space RV Park and 4.5 acres of public beaches. 

One of his most proudest accomplishments is the time he spent in the military. He served 10 years in the U.S. Navy as a Jet Engine Mechanic, both ashore and deployed. His last tour of duty was onboard the U.S.S. Independence in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm. He then carried over his military career serving in the Air Force Reserves.