The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission has selected Patrice A. Bell as its next chief executive officer. The city announced the decision Friday, October 9, following a national search and a multi-stage selection process.
Bell currently serves as chief administrative officer at the Port of Plaquemines. Her previous leadership work includes Xavier University of Louisiana and the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority and Transdev.
As CEO, she will oversee NORD’s staff, programs, facilities and operations under the commission’s direction. The city describes an agency with about 170 full-time employees, 47 part-time employees and up to 160 parks, facilities and assets.
The announcement does not specify her start date. Its approximately $22 million annual budget figure is proposed.