T IDALBAS INGROUP.COM 3 are created. For example, I am putting together a revitalized asset management program, which is a very important project as it directly relates to our insurance program. My days are constantly evolving and different — keeping things exciting. Murphy: When did you realize you wanted a job like this? Gibbs: I realized when I was quite young that I really enjoyed helping to make things “better.” I believe my background provides a combination of skills that allows me to add, value and in turn, help. Murphy: One of the main reasons I wanted to interview you is your background in insurance and disaster consulting. These are unique skill sets that seem very fitting for your role, especially to be a well-rounded risk manager. Let’s talk about planning and preparedness: What is your role at PhilaPort in preparing it for future disasters? Gibbs: Being relatively new at PhilaPort, my current goal is to make sure all assets are revisited. Asset management is critical for us, so I am working to revitalize our asset management program, which will help with other projects that directly feed off this. From here we will have a better baseline on what will be needed on the planning and preparedness end. Murphy: What is a typical day like in the life of a risk manager for a port authority? Gibbs: While that is a great question, the best way I can quickly answer is to say the only typical part of my day is its set of unique challenges. Each day presents itself with new issues and new problems to solve, always with many moving pieces. For example, one moment I could be reviewing insurance language in a contract for a new tenant that needs to get out the door that day, the next moment I could receive a call that an incident occurred at one of our piers. I must quickly change hats and prioritize, addressing the incident in that instance. Murphy: To what do you attribute making your days so different? Gibbs: All companies, including port authorities, are run in their own way, and just like most roles within an organization, the exact title from one organization to the next could mean very different things within its roles and responsibilities. As such I wear many hats, and am involved in many pieces of the puzzle. For example, while I manage our insurance portfolio, I review contracts for insurance compliance, work with in-house counsel on all claims, vet any and all vendors who conduct any type of business activity with the port — all in an effort to maintain and communicate indemnification and insurance criteria, whether it involves a tenant or a vendor, contractor, or other service provider. One of my longstanding side projects has been to bring a paper file system online. As I see gaps and needs, projects are developed and goals “Each day presents itself with new issues and new problems to solve, always with many moving pieces.”
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