Louisiana Gateway Port ยท 1 month ago
Chief Operations Officer
Belle Chasse, LA
Full-time
Onsite
Director/ExecutiveLouisiana Gateway Port is seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to join their executive team and lead all operational functions of the port. This role involves overseeing marine terminal logistics, ferry services, infrastructure projects, and ensuring compliance with safety and security regulations.
LogisticsMarine TransportationSecurity
Hiring Manager
Harrolynn Sherman, MSHRM, CPE
Responsibilities
Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and performance metrics, to include using the ISO 9001 system
Direct and manage all port operations, including operational and safety tenant relationships, ferry services, and emergency response
Provide executive oversight of the Director of Vessels & Safety and the Director of Infrastructure Projects, ensuring operational excellence and strategic alignment
Supervise safety and fire rescue teams, ensuring readiness, training, and emergency response capabilities
Supervise ferry and maintenance teams, ensuring readiness, training, and customer service and safety capabilities
Coordinate vessel scheduling, dock assignments, and traffic control on the Mississippi River
Develop and manage operational budgets, monitor variances and implement corrective measures
Ensure the security of port facilities, vessels, and operations in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
Oversee USCG security and safety compliance
Implement and enforce security protocols, including access control, surveillance, and emergency response plans
Continuously evaluate and improve port security measures
Manage maintenance and repair of port facilities, including docks, piers, buildings, and warehouses
Oversee maintenance of port-owned vessels and vehicles to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards
Direct infrastructure projects, ensuring timely delivery, budget adherence, and alignment with capital improvement goals
Coordinate with staff and contractors to schedule repairs and minimize operational disruption
Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to advance long-term strategic goals aligned with the Master Plan
Lead initiatives to expand port capacity, modernize infrastructure, and adopt innovative technologies (e.g., GIS, AIS)
Oversee capital improvement projects and ensure alignment with grant-funded objectives
Support grant administration and ensure compliance with state and federal funding requirements
Liaise with DOTD, U.S. Department of Transportation, USCG, US Army Corps of Engineers, Plaquemines and surrounding parishes and other regulatory bodies
Ensure accurate reporting and documentation for audits, inspections, and performance reviews
Lead and mentor department heads across rescue boat operations, engineering, infrastructure and capital projects, ferry services, safety, maintenance, and logistics
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement
Oversee workforce planning, training, and succession strategies
Represent the port in public forums, industry associations, and government meetings
Build and maintain relationships with shipping companies, contractors, emergency services, and community partners
Support Executive Director with business development efforts to attract new tenants and cargo
Lead emergency response efforts for vessel accidents, environmental spills, fires, or security threats
Develop and implement contingency plans to minimize downtime and ensure continuity of operations
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Marine Operations, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field (preferred)
Must hold or obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
Military or port operations leadership experience strongly preferred (e.g., U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, or equivalent maritime service)
Significant experience in marine operations, port management, transportation, or related field
Process control background like Lean Six Sigma or ISO 9001 preferred
Strong knowledge of maritime security protocols, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices
Proven experience in vessel and port facility maintenance and operations
Proven experience in capital infrastructure expansions
Demonstrated leadership ability to manage diverse teams and senior directors
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
Ability to respond quickly and decisively to emergencies and operational challenges
Preferred
Leadership Training
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) certification
Incident Command System (ICS) or National Incident Management System (NIMS) certification
Emergency Management or Fire Services Leadership certification
Experience with port automation and digital logistics platforms
Knowledge of Louisiana maritime and emergency response regulations
ISO 9001:2015
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and performance incentives.
Company
Louisiana Gateway Port
The Louisiana Gateway Port, located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, is a leading maritime hub along the Gulf Coast.
Founded in 1954
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageRecent News
Company data provided by crunchbase