NOEL Hacegaba will take over as chief executive of the Port of Long Beach, after current boss Mario Cordero steps down at the end of this year.

Hacegaba has spent 15 years at the port in different roles, including chief commercial officer and deputy executive director, before assuming his current role as chief operating officer in 2023.

Harbor Commission president Frank Colonna said he was the “ideal choice” to lead the port.

“Noel brings extensive experience managing all key port functions, deep knowledge of the goods movement industry and a collaborative leadership style that will serve the port well as we navigate future challenges and opportunities,” he said.

Long Beach mayor Rex Richardson said the port was entering a “a pivotal decade, one defined by bold climate action, digital transformation, and generational infrastructure investments”.

“Hacegaba is well positioned to guide this next chapter as we accelerate toward zero-emission operations, expand our global competitiveness and continue driving economic opportunity for our community,” Richardson said.

“I support his appointment and look forward to working together to build the port of the future and strengthen Long Beach’s leadership on sustainability and innovation.”

Speaking to Lloyd’s List last month on the agreement between the port and regulator South Coast Air Quality Management District, Hacegaba said Long Beach was “a case study in how you can grow green”.

“I am looking forward to working with our mayor, Harbor Commission and partners to accelerate our economic engine as we elevate the port’s profile internationally by delivering world-class infrastructure and customer service and industry-leading sustainability programmes,” he said on his appointment.

Hacegaba will assume his new role on January 1, 2026.