Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero will retire at the end of 2025, according to a Thursday press release.
Over the course of more than eight years, Cordero helped navigate the port through the COVID-19 pandemic, a labor union strike, sustainability efforts to reduce emissions and modernizing operations at the port through the Supply Chain Information Highway.
“He has guided one of the world’s busiest seaports through unprecedented times with vision and steady leadership, always keeping people and community at the center,” Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson said in the release.
The longtime maritime industry leader served as chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission from 2013 to 2017, and spent eight years at the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners after starting in 2003. Both roles deepened his understanding of ocean carrier, terminal operator, cargo owners and trade partner needs.
During his time on the Harbor Commission, Cordero helped spearhead the port’s Green Port Policy, which was adopted in 2005. The policy aimed to reduce the environmental impact of port operations, and launched initiatives to cut drayage truck emissions, ship speed reductions and increased use of green-cargo handling equipment.
Cordero also practiced law for more than 30 years where he specialized in workers’ compensation cases.
“While I’ll miss being in the center of the action for international trade, I know that I’m leaving the Port in the very capable hands of our Board of Harbor Commissioners and the exemplary staff,” Cordero said.
In the months ahead, the Board of Harbor Commissioners will work to determine a process to replace Cordero.
