NEW ORLEANS – The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has appointed Amanda Coates as its Chief Commercial Officer, signaling a strategic move to fortify its market leadership. Coates, with a proven track record in maritime operations and business development, is poised to spearhead the port’s growth initiatives and enhance its commercial strategies.
Port NOLA stands out among Louisiana’s ports with its extensive infrastructure, boasting 24 berths, 20 million square feet of cargo handling areas, 2 cruise terminals, and 2,500 acres of industrial real estate. Coates steps into her new role with a wealth of experience and a clear vision to further leverage these assets for economic prosperity.
In her capacity as Chief Commercial Officer, Coates will drive the port’s business development strategies, cultivate strategic partnerships, and explore new revenue streams. Moreover, she will oversee the management of Port NOLA’s real estate portfolio, ensuring optimal asset utilization to bolster economic growth across the region.
Brandy D. Christian, President & CEO of Port NOLA and CEO of New Orleans Public Belt (NOPB), commended Coates’ appointment, citing her strategic leadership and maritime expertise. Christian emphasized Coates’ pivotal role in advancing the Louisiana International Terminal, the state’s largest public economic development project.
Coates brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having served in various operational and commercial roles for Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest global ocean container carrier, prior to joining Port NOLA in 2018. Since then, she has played a crucial role in driving record growth in container volumes and fostering new trade opportunities.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Coates highlighted Port NOLA’s role as a multi-modal logistics enabler, capable of providing diverse marine, rail, barge, truck, and real estate solutions to its customers. She emphasized the importance of the Louisiana International Terminal project in shaping the future of the region’s economy, underlining its potential to generate family-supporting jobs and tax revenues.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Coates is deeply committed to economic development and has actively engaged with various economic development organizations. She currently serves as a board member for the Green Coffee Association and Saint Bernard Chamber of Commerce, reflecting her dedication to fostering regional prosperity.
Amanda Coates’ appointment as Chief Commercial Officer underscores Port NOLA’s commitment to driving economic growth and solidifying its position as a premier maritime gateway. With her strategic leadership and extensive industry experience, Coates is poised to steer the port towards new heights of success.
