This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
10/25/2024
The Port of New Orleans Board of Commissioners (Port NOLA) yesterday appointed Beth Ann Branch president and CEO of the port and CEO of the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad.
Branch is a globally recognized commercial strategist with more than 20 years of experience in the transportation and logistics industry. She is visionary leader the port needs to move it forward, said Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry in a press release.
"Her deep understanding of the commercial landscape and her track record of fostering rapid economic growth will ensure that our state remains a critical player in the global supply chain," Landry said. "With Beth at the helm, we’re poised to strengthen our State’s role as the premier trade and commerce gateway to the nation.”
Branch joins Port NOLA from the Alabama Port Authority in Mobile, where she has served as chief commercial officer since 2021. Prior to that role, she led business development and international marketing for the Port of Oakland's maritime division. Throughout her tenure at both locations, Branch spearheaded strategic initiatives that resulted in record container volumes, significantly boosting throughput and operational success, Port Nola officials said.
In her new role, Branch succeeds Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ronald Wendel Jr., who had served as acting president and CEO of the port and acting CEO of the railroad since June. He helped advance key strategic initiatives, such as the $1.8 billion-dollar Louisiana International Terminal, during the port's transitional period.
Wendel served in the acting roles following Brandy Christian's departure to join Patriot Rail Co. as CEO.