Why Clinton County Port Authority Was Honored as a “Best Workplace in Ohio” For a Second Year

For the second year in a row, Clinton County Port Authority in Wilmington, OH, was selected by Ohio Business Magazine as a “Best Workplace in Ohio.”  The publication is the Buckeye State’s only all business magazine. 

“Receiving this recognition two years in a row is both humbling and flattering,” said Clinton County Port Authority Executive Director Dan Evers. “I believe it is a testament to my colleagues at the Port Authority, and to the vision and support that we receive from the Port Authority Board of Directors.”

The annual recognition program, now in its sixth year, selects honorees based on their submissions detailing their company size, engagement with employees, benefit structure and past awards. Companies are divided into three categories — less than 50 employees, 50-200 employees, and more than 200 employees — and then further classified as public, private, nonprofit, or government. The Port Authority was recognized for its excellence as a government entity with fewer than 50 employees. It was one of only three government entities recognized, and was the only business recognized in Wilmington. The statewide winners included businesses in retail, professional service, healthcare, dining, personal care, and entertainment in the greater Dayton and Cincinnati areas.

Last year was a tumultuous year for every business. Ohio Business Magazine recognized how many things changed, “including what even constitutes a workplace.” The Clinton County Port Authority was able to navigate the difficulties by using their core values as a touchstone while being flexible and accommodating.

In both usual and unprecedented times, the Clinton County Port Authority truly embraces team culture and values the contributions of all employees. The Executive Director offers an “open door” policy for every staff member so they know they are free to approach him with suggestions, complaints, or concerns. Although the gatherings looked different in 2020, weekly staff meetings that bring all of the employees together are the Port Authorities core system to ensure continuity of operations, open communication, and consistent external messaging. Having all of the staff together helps avoid the “silo effect” where departments become compartmentalized.

Because the Port Authority values employee development, they have a robust professional development program that encourages employees to seek out enrichment opportunities. These include attendance at various state and local seminars and conferences like the Ohio Council of Port Authorities, Ohio Aviation Association, Ohio Economic Development Association, Dayton Development Coalition, and Heritage Ohio.

Work/life balance for its employees is an active focus of the Port Authority, and as such, staff members are given time and flexibility to engage in volunteer opportunities that are important to them. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the physical and mental health of the staff were of particular concern. In response, employees were encouraged to take the time necessary to juggle caring for family members and to ensure their own health by securing vaccination appointments. The staff has always had paid time off, flexible schedules, and remote working options.

“I’m so honored to be part of a team who has achieved this award two years in a row,” said Jennifer Klus, Economic Development Director for the Port Authority. “I think it speaks volumes about the collaborative environment in Clinton County and the dedication of my colleagues at the Port Authority.”

See how the Clinton County Port Authority staff can help your business succeed. Contact them at 937-655-7019 or jklus@ccportauthority.com and follow them on LinkedIn and Twitter.