Noel Hacegaba has been appointed by the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commisioners as the next chief executive of the Port of Long Beach, effective Ja. 1, 2026.

Hacegaba, a longtime port executive currently serving as chief operating officer, will succeed departing CEO Mario Cordero at North America's second-busiest seaport.

"[Hacegaba] brings a depth of expertise and leadership to drive the Port's continued growth and maintain its position as the nation’s premier gateway for trans-Pacific trade," said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna. "His strategic vision and proficiency to get things done will be invaluable as we continue to build sustainably and expand our global competitiveness."

Outgoing Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero said he is confident in the transition. "I know I am leaving the Port in very capable hands with Noel at the helm, after his many years as my right‑hand man," he said.

"[Hacegaba] has the talent and collaborative approach to drive competitiveness and accelerate our zero-emissions goals during a period of tremendous growth at the Port."

Hacegaba, welcomed his new appointment and committed to working together with all stakeholders "to move our port forward" as Port of Long Beach strengthens its value proposition, accelerate its economic engine and continue its quest to zero-emissions operations.

"We have a unique opportunity to clarify our vision, simplify our mission and amplify our impact throughout surrounding communities and across the global supply chain. I would also like to thank Mario Cordero for his years of setting an excellent example of leadership at the Port," he said.

In his role as COO, Hacegaba oversees daily operations including commercial services, engineering, finance and administration, planning and environmental affairs, and strategic advocacy.

Over the last 15 years, Hacegaba has negotiated some of the most high-profile transactions at the Port, including the multibillion-dollar sales of Long Beach Container Terminal and Total Terminals International.

During the pandemic, Hacegaba directed the Business Recovery Task Force and coordinated with industry, labor and government partners to keep cargo moving.

Lessons learned during the pandemic prompted Hacegaba to spearhead development of the Port's Supply Chain Information Highway, a digital platform designed to improve cargo visibility and data sharing across the national freight network.