The Haifa port board of directors appointed last week former Israel Railways general manager, Amos Uzani, as the port's new director general.
Uzani, 50, headed Israel railways sector for a period of five years through 2001, leaving his post when then-transportation minister Efraim Sneh, refused to extend his term in office.
Since 2001 Uzani served as a private consultant in several infrastructure projects.
Uzani who is considered close to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, was Finance Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's choice, while Transportation Minister Meir Sheetrit backed the outgoing port manager Mendi Zaltzman.
Last week's vote was the second round for the tender for the post.
The port's board of directors could not agree on a short list of three that included Mendi Zaltzman the outgoing port manager in the first tender which was held several months ago, prompting a second vote.Uzani's nomination was welcome among Israeli shipping circles.
