News Summary
Paul Matthews has announced his immediate resignation as the executive director of the Port of South Louisiana after nearly three years of leadership. His tenure is marked by achievements in cargo tonnage growth and significant capital projects, despite facing challenges such as project setbacks. Deputy Port Director Brian Cox will take over as acting director while a search for a permanent replacement begins. The Port remains a crucial entity in Louisiana’s economy, featuring extensive facilities and future developments.
LaPlace, Louisiana – Paul Matthews has resigned as executive director of the Port of South Louisiana, effective immediately. His resignation, announced on August 6, 2025, comes after nearly three years of leadership, described as a departure by “mutual agreement.” Matthews had been at the helm of the Port since January 2022, marking a significant milestone as he was the first Black chief executive of a major Louisiana port, appointed in July 2022.
During Matthews’ tenure, the Port achieved notable progress, reversing a seven-year decline in cargo tonnage. The Port reported consecutive years of increased cargo throughput and revenues, securing millions in state and federal funding for various initiatives. Noteworthy accomplishments include the renewal of long-term industry leases and the initiation of over $1.5 billion in capital projects, particularly emphasizing investments in renewable energy infrastructure.
One of Matthews’ bold initiatives was the proposed $400 million new terminal project in Wallace. However, the project faced significant hurdles, including permitting delays and local opposition, ultimately leading to its abandonment. In early 2023, the Port made a $455 million bid for the Avondale Global Gateway, which was similarly withdrawn amid scrutiny from public officials and consultants.
Matthews is stepping down to pursue “new professional endeavors” but has not made himself available for comment following his resignation announcement. In the interim, Deputy Port Director Brian Cox will serve as acting executive director. Cox brings over 25 years of experience in maritime operations and has been part of the Port’s executive team since 2017.
The Port of South Louisiana is the largest port in Louisiana and ranks as the second largest by tonnage in the Western Hemisphere. It encompasses a 54-mile jurisdiction along the Mississippi River, flanked by major cities such as New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and covers the parishes of St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, and St. James. The Port is recognized as the leading grain exporter in the U.S. and holds the second position in energy transfer volume.
Facilities at the Port include seven grain transfer facilities, four major oil refineries, and a total of 11 petrochemical manufacturing facilities, which play a critical role in the local and national economy. Ongoing projects that are expected to be operational by late next year include a $46 million development for an Ireland-based tire recycling company and a $1.3 billion biofuels project. However, there are emerging uncertainties regarding the progress of these projects, attributed to cuts in green fuel programs in previous administrations.
The search for a permanent replacement for Matthews is expected to commence shortly, with the Port’s continued developments remaining in focus as it navigates this transition in leadership.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- New Orleans CityBusiness
- Wikipedia: Port of South Louisiana
- NOLA.com
- Google Search: Port of South Louisiana
- WorkBoat
- Google Scholar: Port of South Louisiana
- Biz New Orleans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Port of South Louisiana
- L’Observateur
- Google News: Port of South Louisiana news
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
