The Port of New Orleans has officially named Loren Marino as its new Vice President of External Affairs and Chief of Staff, marking a significant leadership move as the port advances its long-term strategic goals.
This dual role places Marino at the center of the port’s external and internal operations. She will lead community engagement efforts, guide strategic planning, and oversee multiple departments, including Human Resources, IT, Procurement, and Marketing and Communications. Her appointment also includes responsibilities across the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB), reflecting the interconnected nature of port and rail operations in the region.
Marino’s background is rooted in law and public service. She holds a bachelor’s in economics from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctorate from Tulane Law School. Her previous roles in Jefferson Parish include serving as Senior Assistant Parish Attorney, Director of Inspection and Code Enforcement, and Chief Administrative Assistant to the Parish President’s Office. Earlier in her career, she worked as an Assistant District Attorney, prosecuting felony cases.
Throughout her public service tenure, she developed a reputation for bridging policy and practice—translating high-level strategy into operational outcomes. That mix of governance experience and hands-on administrative oversight seems tailored for the kind of cross-functional leadership Port NOLA is seeking.
Board Chairman Michael A. Thomas noted, “Loren Marino brings a wealth of legal and administrative knowledge to the Port of New Orleans. Her expertise will be key to advancing our strategic initiatives and ensuring Louisiana’s relevance as a vital link in the global supply chain.”
With Port NOLA pursuing expansion of its container capacity through the upcoming Louisiana International Terminal, the appointment signals a push to align public relations, community outreach, and internal coordination under experienced leadership. President and CEO Beth Branch emphasized, “Loren has a proven record of success in strategic leadership and operational excellence. Her extensive experience will be instrumental as we work to deliver Louisiana’s future.”
A former Executive Board Member and President of the Jefferson Bar Association, Marino has also served on the Executive Board of the Southeast Louisiana Boys & Girls Club, reflecting a long-standing commitment to civic engagement.
Speaking on her new role, Marino said, “The Port of New Orleans is one of Louisiana’s most important economic drivers—creating jobs and bringing prosperity to our region for generations to come. I look forward to continuing to carry out that critical mission.”
