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The South Carolina Port Authority’s Board of Directors made it official last week: Micah Mallace is the agency’s next President and CEO. The vote was unanimous, and the message was clear—this is a leader who knows the industry, the people, and the stakes.
A Return to Familiar Waters
Mallace isn’t new to SC Ports. From 2011 to 2022, he climbed the ranks, eventually serving as Chief Commercial Officer. His fingerprints are all over some of the port’s biggest wins, including convincing Walmart to build a massive import distribution center near the Port of Charleston. That kind of track record doesn’t go unnoticed.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next President and CEO at SC Ports,” Mallace said after the announcement. “The port team and South Carolina’s broader maritime community provide port service that is unmatched, and I know, together, we will further strengthen our competitiveness.”
It’s not just talk. Bill Stern, the Board Chairman, put it bluntly: “The impact of our Port reaches well beyond the borders of South Carolina. What we do and how we operate influence global trade and the worldwide economy. Micah Mallace understands that significance and responsibility.”
Why This Matters for the Industry
The Port of Charleston isn’t just another dot on the map. It’s the 8th largest container port in the U.S., a critical hub for businesses from the Upstate to the Lowcountry, and a gateway to global markets. With Hapag-Lloyd already expanding its coverage there in 2025, the pressure is on to keep the momentum going.
Stuart Sandlin, President of Hapag-Lloyd North America, didn’t mince words: “Hapag-Lloyd values the reliable service provided by SC Ports, which is why we are expanding our coverage at the Port of Charleston in 2025. We look forward to working with Micah in his new role and continuing to deliver efficient services for our customers.”
And it’s not just the private sector cheering. Senator Thomas Alexander, South Carolina Senate President, called Mallace “an excellent choice,” citing his deep knowledge of the waterfront community. Representative Murrell Smith, Speaker of the House, echoed that sentiment, calling Mallace’s experience “firmly aligned” with the port’s mission.
A Leadership Transition Built on Trust
Phil Padgett, who stepped in as interim President and CEO, will return to his role as Chief Financial Officer. His confidence in Mallace speaks volumes: “I can think of no better person to lead SC Ports and know he will bring the necessary vision to grow as a top ten U.S. container port.”
Mallace’s first major test? His State of the Port address on October 28, where he’ll lay out his vision for the future. Expect industry updates, strategic goals, and—if his past is any indication—a focus on growth without sacrificing reliability.
More Than Just a Job—It’s Personal
Mallace isn’t just a suit in an office. He’s a Charleston native, married with three kids, and someone who’s spent years in the trenches of port logistics. Before returning to SC Ports, he led Harbor Logistics, a third-party logistics company specializing in port drayage, warehousing, and transload operations. That’s the kind of hands-on experience that builds credibility.
Vince Marino of Container Maintenance Corporation put it simply: “The Port of Charleston’s maritime industry stands out from others for our efficient and dedicated workforce. I’m excited to see Micah Mallace step into the role of President and CEO of SC Ports, and know he has the necessary experience to bring in new business and strengthen our competitiveness.”
