Port Houston has named two new executives to key leadership roles as the port continues to strengthen its position along the Houston Ship Channel, the busiest waterway in the United States.
Chief Executive Officer Charlie Jenkins announced the appointments of Eric Casey as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Parker Harrison as Incoming Chief Legal Officer (CLO) following a nationwide search. Jenkins said the additions underscore the port’s focus on securing experienced leadership to guide operations and governance.
Eric Casey Takes Over as COO
Casey brings decades of experience in port management and logistics. Before joining Port Houston, he held senior roles at Cold Summit Development, where he served as Executive Vice President of Global Ports, and previously as CEO of the Port of Wilmington, Delaware. He also worked at Virginia International Terminals and spent years at Maersk Line overseeing operations, business development, and projects in emerging markets.
A 26-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Casey combines military leadership with commercial shipping expertise. He holds an MBA from the Mason School of Business at the College of William and Mary, a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, and advanced certifications in Lean and Six Sigma. Casey succeeds long-time COO Tom Heidt, who retired earlier this year.
“Port Houston plays a pivotal role in global trade and is essential to the economic strength of our region and the nation,” said Casey. “I’m honored to join the team and look forward to building on its strong operational foundation for continued growth and long-term success.”
Parker Harrison to Become CLO
Harrison will assume the Chief Legal Officer position in the coming months as Erik Eriksson prepares for retirement. She most recently served as Chief Legal and Risk Officer and Corporate Secretary at Crowley Maritime. Earlier in her career, she managed global liability claims at Shipowners’ Claims Bureau, Inc., and practiced maritime law at Chaffe McCall, LLP.
Her legal expertise spans admiralty, maritime law, and enterprise risk management. Harrison holds a Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Tulane Law School, where she specialized in maritime law. She also earned degrees in Italian and German from the University of Virginia.
“Port Houston is a driving force in the maritime industry and a key contributor to the national economy,” Harrison said. “I’m thrilled to join the team and support its mission as we navigate complex legal and regulatory challenges and pursue strategic growth.”
Jenkins thanked both Heidt and Eriksson for their service, noting their contributions in shaping Port Houston’s growth and stability.
