Matthew Leech has been named president and chief executive officer of Ports America (“the Company”), the largest marine terminal operator and stevedore in the United States, starting November 2022. Mark Montgomery, who will step down as CEO and continue to support the company in an advising capacity, will be succeeded by him.
With more than 25 years of experience in the marine sector, Mr. Leech is a seasoned executive in ports and terminals. He formerly served as Managing Director for the Americas and Chief Executive Officer at DP World, a company that offers end-to-end supply chain logistics. In his capacity as Vice President, Operations and Development, Mr. Leech led significant expansion plans for CSX World Terminals prior to DP World’s acquisition of CSX World Terminals in 2005.
“Ports America is poised for growth, and Matt is the right leader to take this exceptional business forward,” said Mr. Montgomery. “He has a deep understanding of Ports America and shares the value-driven focus that differentiates our organization. Under Matt’s leadership, I am confident that Ports America will continue to provide best-in-class service and solutions for the benefit of our customers and cargo owners.”
“I am honored to be named as the next CEO of Ports America,” said Mr. Leech. “Ports America is a high-performing organization that values its long-standing relationships with its customers. I look forward to working with leadership and the entire team to continue driving strong performance, delivering on Ports America’s commitments and enhancing its already strong position in the industry.”
Leech will work closely with Andrew Clakre, the Chairman of the Ports America Board of Directors, who took on the role earlier this year. Having served in a variety of capacities as an executive, advisor, and board member within the industry, Clarke is a leader in the logistics and maritime sectors. Clarke chairs the board of directors for Ports America and Direct ChassisLink Inc. in addition to serving on the boards of Rock-it Cargo USA LLC and Direct ChassisLink Inc.
“We are pleased Matt will lead Ports America forward and build on the Company’s momentum as it enters its next chapter of growth and success,” said Mr. Clarke. “Matt brings strong industry experience and will be an outstanding addition to the team as we deliver on our mission to provide the highest quality operations for our customers. We also thank Mark for his years of service and leadership during a period of unprecedented growth for the Company.”
In order to support the company’s long-term growth goals, Ports America teamed with longtime minority shareholder Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (“CPP Investments”) in September 2021.
“Matt brings a wide range of industry experience and knowledge to Ports America, and is the ideal leader to build on the strong foundation in place and lead the Company into the future,” said Scott Lawrence, Managing Director, CPP Investments. “We appreciate Mark’s contribution to Ports America over the last 35 years and are fortunate to have him continue in an advisory role as we move forward. We have a strong future ahead of us and are positioned to accelerate the growth of Ports America under Matt’s leadership.”
About Ports America
Ports America is the largest marine terminal operator in North America with operations in 70 locations and 33 ports across the United States. The company is a leader in technology driven solutions and covers a wide range of supply chain services including container, RoRo, breakbulk, military, and cruise ship operations. Ports America is based in Jersey City, New Jersey.