The Massachusetts Port Authority has named Charlie Cunnion as port director, putting the transportation and supply chain executive in charge of Massport’s Maritime Division and the Port of Boston’s major cargo and cruise operations.
Cunnion brings more than 25 years of experience in transportation, supply chain management, operations, and strategic planning. Most recently, he served as vice president of supply chain and customer service for CMPC Forest Products North America.
As port director, Cunnion will oversee maritime operations that include Conley Container Terminal, Flynn Cruiseport Boston, and Massport’s South Boston waterfront facilities.
“Charlie is an expert in supply chain management, with decades of experience across all modes of cargo transportation,” said Massport CEO Rich Davey. “His leadership, experience and strategic perspective will be invaluable to the Port of Boston as we work to strengthen operations and continue a tradition of innovation and growth.”
Massport said the Port of Boston generates about $8.2 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 66,000 jobs.
Conley Container Terminal moved more than 1.7 million metric tons of cargo in 2025 while adding new international services and handling the largest ships in the terminal’s history, according to Massport.
Flynn Cruiseport Boston handled more than 454,000 passengers and 149 ship calls in 2025. Massport has committed more than $100 million to cruise terminal improvements and plans to bring shore power to the facility by 2030.
Cunnion began his career at International Forest Products, eventually becoming vice president of global transportation. In that role, he was responsible for approximately 4.2 million metric tons of annual freight and logistics contracts spanning multiple transportation modes.
He joined CMPC Forest Products North America in 2024 following the formation of a joint venture between International Forest Products and CMPC. Massport said Cunnion helped develop the company’s operating framework and reduced supply chain costs by 21%.
Cunnion is a graduate of Nichols College and previously served as an officer in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of captain.
