Donald F. Wierda, president, and the board of directors of United States Navigation, have announced the election of William V. Heffernan to the position of senior vice president. In this new capacity he is responsible for corporate planning and development, inland and port offices, administration, and certain subagency relationships.

Mr. Heffernan joined U.S. Navigation in April 1980 after having served in various executive positions within the steamship industry.