NC Ports Announces New Leadership

Brian E. Clark will take over as Executive Director of the North Carolina State Ports Authority following the retirement of Paul J. Cozza at the end of this year.

Clark will continue to serve as North Carolina Ports' Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Executive Director, and Cozza as Executive Director, through December 31.

Prior to joining NC Ports in June 2017, Clark served in various senior level positions throughout the maritime industry, including a role as Managing Director for APM Terminals at Port Elizabeth, N.J. as well as Project Director for APM Terminals in Mobile, Ala.

Cozza was named to the top spot at the port authority in April 2014. Under his leadership, NC Ports achieved its most profitable years on record; embarked on a more than $200 million capital improvements plan; reintroduced intermodal rail; and welcomed the largest container vessels in the Ports Authority’s history. Additionally, container volumes through the Port of Wilmington have increased 25% during his tenure, while general cargo at the ports of Wilmington and Morehead City increased 58%. NC Ports has also become a significant player in the cold chain sector. Since 2014, refrigerated container volume through the Port of Wilmington has more than quadrupled. In Fiscal Year 2020, refrigerated cargo increased 15% year-over-year.

“It has been an honor to lead North Carolina Ports. Our organization has made tremendous strides over the last several years and it has been exciting to be a part of the progress and witness its positive impacts on our state,” said Paul J. Cozza, Executive Director, North Carolina Ports. “As I step away, I know our dedicated team will continue to build on this success and further grow NC Ports as an economic leader for North Carolina.”

“The Board of Directors is excited to have a proven leader in the maritime industry step into this role,” said Robert A. Wicker, Chairman, North Carolina Ports Board of Directors. “It has long been a part of our plan to have Brian move up within the organization and we are confident his more than 20 years of experience will continue to propel NC Ports forward as a competitive East Coast port.”

“Our ports play an important role in North Carolina whether that’s through better supporting our state’s transportation network or through the billions of dollars it contributes to our state’s economy every year. Brian understands this commitment and we believe his strong leadership will help further Paul’s legacy and expand port business,” said Eric Boyette, North Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary.