South Carolina Ports Authority (SC Ports) has announced a leadership transition. President and CEO Barbara Melvin has stepped down after three years in the top role.
Melvin, who joined SC Ports in 1998, played a key role in major infrastructure projects, including the Charleston Harbor Deepening. She also oversaw the reopening of the Leatherman Terminal.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have served South Carolina and the Ports Authority over these many years,” Melvin said. “For personal and professional reasons, I want to pursue other opportunities. I take pride in what has been accomplished, and I have no doubt even more success is in the future.”
Board Chairman Bill Stern thanked Melvin on behalf of the Ports Authority. “She has been instrumental in moving the Ports Authority in a positive direction as CEO and advancing several critical infrastructure projects,” Stern said. “We wish her the best as she embarks on new opportunities.”
The Board has appointed Chief Financial Officer Phillip Padgett as interim CEO. Padgett, who joined the port in 2016, has led financial, risk management, and real estate operations as CFO.
“I look forward to serving the Port and leading our team as interim CEO until a replacement is named,” Padgett said. “SC Ports remains committed to providing reliable service to customers and supporting South Carolina’s maritime community.”
