Posted on October 8, 2025
CHARLESTON, SC — The South Carolina Port Authority’s Board of Directors announced Micah Mallace as the agency’s next President and CEO. The vote was unanimous.
Mallace assumes leadership of SC Ports after a long and distinguished career in the maritime and logistics industry, including a previous tenure with SC Ports from 2011-2022 where he served in various roles before being named Chief Commercial Officer. Mallace facilitated numerous commercial successes, including attracting Walmart to build a new import distribution center near the Port of Charleston.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next President and CEO at SC Ports,” said Mallace. “The port team and South Carolina’s broader maritime community provide port service that is unmatched, and I know, together, we will further strengthen our competitiveness.”
The Board, along with state leaders, reaffirmed their confidence in the selection of Mallace to lead the Port.
“The impact of our Port reaches well beyond the borders of South Carolina,” said Board Chairman Bill Stern. “What we do and how we operate influence global trade and the worldwide economy. Micah Mallace understands that significance and responsibility. He has the vision, experience and nuts-and-bolts knowledge to navigate the many facets of today’s maritime industry. We are extremely fortunate to have secured him as our new President and CEO.”
Interim President and CEO Phil Padgett will resume his role as Chief Financial Officer.
“I can think of no better person to lead SC Ports and know he will bring the necessary vision to grow as a top ten U.S. container port,” said Padgett.
Mallace will deliver his first State of the Port address on Oct. 28, where he will provide industry updates and lay out his vision for the future of SC Ports.
Prior to his appointment as President and CEO, Mallace served as President of Harbor Logistics, a third-party logistics company specializing in port drayage, warehousing, and transload operations. He is a Charleston native and is married with three children.
Notable quotes:
“Hapag-Lloyd values the reliable service provided by SC Ports, which is why we are expanding our coverage at the Port of Charleston in 2025. We look forward to working with Micah in his new role and continuing to deliver efficient services for our customers.” – Stuart Sandlin, President of Hapag-Lloyd North America
“Micah Mallace is an excellent choice to lead the SC Ports Authority, given his experience and deep knowledge of the waterfront community. The Port is vital to South Carolina’s economic development and to the success of the businesses and citizens who rely on the port. I commend Chairman Stern and the Board for an appointment that will help ensure the Port’s success for years to come.” – Senator Thomas Alexander, South Carolina Senate President
“I applaud the hard work of Chairman Stern and the SPA Board to identify and appoint Micah Mallace as its new President and CEO. Micah’s experience and qualifications firmly align with our ports’ mission, and he will be an invaluable asset as we move forward in the highly competitive maritime industry.” – Representative Murrell Smith, South Carolina Speaker of the House
“The Port of Charleston’s maritime industry stands out from others for our efficient and dedicated workforce. I’m excited to see Micah Mallace step into the role of President and CEO of SC Ports, and know he has the necessary experience to bring in new business and strengthen our competitiveness.” – Vince Marino, Container Maintenance Corporation
“Our Port is the economic engine that drives our state. I thank Chairman Stern for his leadership and the Board on their quick and decisive action. Mr. Mallace is an excellent choice to take our port to new heights as he takes the wheel and puts the pedal to the metal.” – Senator Larry Grooms, Chairman, Review and Oversight Commission of SCSPA
“I congratulate the SC Ports Authority Board for recognizing the importance of filling this vital leadership position in a timely manner. I am confident Mr. Mallace has the experience and qualifications necessary to represent our state and its ports in a positive and professional manner in the years ahead.” – Rep Weston Newton Vice Chairman, Review and Oversight Commission of SCSPA
“Chairman Stern and the SPA Board have made an outstanding choice by naming Micah Mallace as its President and CEO. The port is an integral part of our state economy and I am confident that this appointment will contribute positively to South Carolina’s continued growth and prosperity.” – Rep Bruce Bannister, Chairman, Ways and Means Committee
“South Carolina’s ports are essential to our state’s growth and prosperity, connecting businesses from the Upstate to the Lowcountry with markets around the world. The Inland Port in Greer stands as a prime example of how this system drives opportunity far beyond the waterfront. With his experience and leadership, Micah Mallace is well-prepared to build on that success and guide the Ports Authority in strengthening South Carolina’s economy for years to come.” – Senator Harvey Peeler, Chairman, Senate Finance Committee
About South Carolina Ports
South Carolina Ports owns and operates marine terminals at the Port of Charleston and two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon. As the 8th largest U.S. container port, SC Ports connects port-dependent businesses throughout the Southeast and beyond to global markets. SC Ports proactively invests in infrastructure ahead of demand to provide reliable service, efficient operations, cargo capacity, an expansive rail network and the deepest harbor on the East Coast at 52 feet. SC Ports is a vital economic engine for South Carolina, with port operations supporting 1 in 9 jobs statewide. Learn more: scspa.com.
