PORT of New Orleans (Port NOLA) President and CEO Brandy Christian has announced she will step down mid-June 2024 after six years in office.

Ms Christian has served as the President and CEO of Port NOLA and as the CEO of the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB) since its acquisition by Port NOLA in 2018, during which time Port NOLA increased operating revenues by 70 per cent and NOPB increased operating income by 300 per cent.

"We cannot overstate the exemplary leadership that Brandy Christian has provided throughout her tenure," said Walter Leger Jr, chairman of the Port NOLA Board of Commissioners and the NOPB Commission.

"Under Christian's guidance, Port NOLA has achieved remarkable successes. Through her vision, Christian has positioned Port NOLA to regain its place as the premier destination within the global supply chain," said Mr Leger.

"We wish Brandy all the best as she begins this new and exciting challenge."

Ms Christian joined Port NOLA as its chief operating officer in 2015 and was appointed its president and CEO two years later. Within six months of taking the reins, she led the acquisition of the NOPB by Port NOLA, connecting the rail and maritime supply chains.

Ms Christian has also overseen the beginnings of the largest economic development project in Louisiana history, raising nearly all of the funding to support the US$1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal (LIT), a new container facility in St Bernard Parish that is set to begin construction in 2025 and will solidify Louisiana's position as a vital hub for global markets.

Said Ms Christian: "I will be departing with immense gratitude for the dedicated team and supportive community who have made Port NOLA a beacon of innovation and efficiency. Together, we have navigated challenges and embraced opportunities thoughtfully and strategically, propelling our port and region to new heights."

Port NOLA vice president and chief financial officer Ronald Wendel will assume acting leadership of Port NOLA and NOPB.