New Orleans, LA – The Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has announced that Ronald J. Wendel Jr., currently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will step into the roles of Acting President and CEO of Port NOLA and Acting CEO of the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB) starting in June. This leadership transition follows the departure of Brandy Christian, who is set to become CEO of Patriot Rail Company.
Wendel, who has been with Port NOLA since 2015, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His appointment aims to ensure the seamless continuation of key strategic initiatives, including the ambitious $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal project.
“The Port NOLA Board and its executive team are focused on assuring a smooth and transparent process to maintain operational continuity during this leadership transition period,” said Board Chairman Walter Leger, Jr. “We are confident in Wendel’s experience and welcome the opportunity to work alongside him and the Port NOLA/NOPB teams to drive growth and success. Simultaneously, the Board is committed to ensuring a thoughtful process for determining the permanent President and CEO of Port NOLA and CEO of NOPB. We will continue engaging with the Governor’s Office, State officials, the maritime industry, and other stakeholders to ensure that the State’s priorities, including the Louisiana International Terminal at Violet and any additional port infrastructure projects, are given the foremost consideration to drive Louisiana toward the top of the global supply chain.”
Wendel has played a critical role in securing $800 million in commitments from future private operators of the Louisiana International Terminal, Ports America, and Terminal Investment Limited (TIL), the investment arm of Mediterranean Shipping Company. He has been instrumental in commercial negotiations across Port NOLA and NOPB’s lines of business. Additionally, Wendel spearheaded improvements in Port NOLA’s bond rating and facilitated the financing of over $260 million in public and private placement bonds to support the Capital Investment Program, including the $140 million expansion of the Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal.
“We are grateful for Brandy Christian’s visionary leadership and contributions to Port NOLA and NOPB throughout her tenure, which have set the stage for continued progress and success,” said Ronald Wendel Jr. “I am proud to have been part of the management team that Brandy developed over the past nine years and even more humbled for the opportunity to work alongside our staff and stakeholders in a new role to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and foster sustainable growth.”
Wendel’s extensive background and proven track record in managing financial operations and strategic projects make him well-suited to lead Port NOLA through this transition. His appointment is expected to ensure the continuity and advancement of critical port operations and infrastructure projects, keeping Port NOLA on a path of growth and development.
