The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners announced that at its Dec. 8, 2025 meeting, commissioners will consider appointing longtime Port of Long Beach executive Dr. Noel Hacegaba as the port’s next chief executive officer, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Hacegaba, currently the port’s chief operating officer (COO), would succeed Mario Cordero, who is stepping down at year’s end after leading the port through record cargo growth, major modernization projects, and the global pandemic.
“Noel Hacegaba is the ideal choice to lead the Port of Long Beach,” said Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna. “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.”
Hacegaba has served in senior management roles at the port for 15 years. As COO, he oversees daily operations including commercial services, engineering, finance and administration, planning and environmental affairs, and strategic advocacy.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson said the port is entering a “pivotal decade” and highlighted the city’s priorities in emissions reduction, digital transformation, and infrastructure. “Dr. 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. 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.”
Hacegaba said he is “honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as CEO of the Port of Long Beach,” adding that he looks forward to working with city and port leadership “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 programs.”
During his tenure, Hacegaba has negotiated major business transactions, including the multibillion-dollar sales of Long Beach Container Terminal and Total Terminals International. He previously served as managing director of commercial operations and chief commercial officer, helping guide the port through industry realignment and record cargo recovery following a major carrier bankruptcy.
Hacegaba supported the CEO during the pandemic-era supply chain disruptions, directing the Business Recovery Task Force and coordinating with industry, labor, and government partners. He also led development of the port’s Supply Chain Information Highway, a digital platform intended to improve cargo visibility and data sharing nationwide.
He has served as executive director of the Intermodal Container Transfer Facility Joint Powers Authority, which oversees a major near-dock rail operation supported by the Long Beach and Los Angeles ports.
A graduate of the University of Southern California, Hacegaba holds degrees in economics, business administration and planning, and a doctorate in public administration from the University of La Verne. He has authored industry white papers and serves in leadership roles with national trade organizations, including the Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors and the American Association of Port Authorities Professional Development Board. He is a former chairman of the Intermodal Association of North America’s board.
In 2025, Hacegaba received the Stanley T. Olafson Award from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce for leadership in advancing international trade.
