Port of New Orleans Appoints Kristi App as Chief Commercial Officer

NEW ORLEANS —The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) today announced the appointment of Kristi App as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). In her new role, App will lead commercial operations across Port NOLA’s cargo, cruise, and industrial real estate portfolios, bringing over two decades of expertise in international trade, transportation, and global logistics.

App joins Port NOLA from J.W. Allen & Company, Inc., a leading freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and global logistics provider, where she most recently served as Chief Operating Officer. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in optimizing supply chains and developing resilient logistics networks across multiple industries and borders. Her career at J.W. Allen included leadership positions such as Vice President of Business Development and Vice President of Exports.

“Kristi App’s extensive background in logistics, international trade, and commercial strategy make her an exceptional addition to our executive team,” said Beth Branch, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans and CEO of the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB). “Her vision and leadership will be key to advancing our growth initiatives, including the Louisiana International Terminal, and driving sustainable cargo development that benefits our region and our partners across the supply chain.”

A Licensed U.S. Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), App is widely recognized as a leader in the maritime community. She received the 2024 C. Alvin Bertel Award, honoring her significant contributions to the Louisiana port community. She has also served as Vice President of the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA) and currently serves as a commissioner on the Louisiana Board of International Commerce. App earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Holy Cross.

“I’m honored to join Port NOLA at such an exciting time in its growth trajectory,” said Kristi App, Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of New Orleans. “The Port plays a vital role in connecting Louisiana to the global economy, and I look forward to working with our partners to expand our reach, strengthen our customer relationships, and position the Louisiana International Terminal as a world-class gateway for future generations.”

As CCO, App will oversee Port NOLA’s commercial strategy with a focus on generating new revenue streams, expanding market reach, and driving strategic growth in cargo, cruise, and real estate sectors.

App’s appointment underscores Port NOLA’s commitment to driving innovation, collaboration, and economic growth across the Gulf region.

About Port NOLA:

The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) is a modern multimodal gateway for global commerce and an in- demand cruise port — delivering seamless, integrated logistics solutions between river, rail and road. Port NOLA is a diverse deepwater port uniquely located on the Mississippi River near the Gulf of Mexico -- with access to 30-plus major inland hubs such as Dallas, Memphis, Chicago and Canada via 14,500 miles of waterways, 6 Class I railroads and interstate roadways. Strategic alignment with the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad, a Class III connecting railroad, strengthens Port NOLA’s position as an integrated hub and supports the Port’s mission of driving regional economic prosperity. For more information, visit: www.portnola.com.