The role of the port authority in enhancing the resilience of the port organisational ecosystem

Abstract

This research explores the pivotal role of port authorities (PAs) in enhancing the resilience of the port organizational ecosystem (POE), emphasizing their dual responsibility as operational entities and representatives of public interests. Situated within public administration frameworks, PAs are tasked with advancing societal goals while ensuring efficient governance, innovation, and adaptability in the face of maritime challenges. The study investigates how PAs act as central drivers of resilience by aligning their governance structures, business models, and strategic initiatives with public and private interests. Key objectives include analyzing governance frameworks, assessing management effectiveness, 
and identifying interventions that promote stakeholder cooperation within entrepreneurial ecosystems. Through qualitative methods, such as stakeholder interviews and focus group discussions, the research highlights the shared responsibilities of PAs and their partners in fostering resilience. Areas of significant PA influence include regulatory oversight, infrastructure development, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. Effective management and collaboration between PAs and other actors—such as terminal operators, municipalities, and communities—are shown to be critical for building resilient ecosystems. The findings emphasize the strong link between management effectiveness, public accountability, and resilience-building. PAs demonstrate their ability to drive green transitions, support innovation, and balance public and private goals through proactive governance and strategic partnerships. By situating PAs within the entrepreneurial and public administration contexts, the study underscores their capacity to serve public interests while fostering resilient, sustainable port ecosystems.
Keywords: port authority, public administration, resilience, governance, entrepreneurial ecosystems, shared responsibility, managerial effectiveness, sustainability