Andy Saporito took the helm of the South Jersey Port Corporation (SJPC) last year and brought with him nearly 40 years of experience. He jumped right into ensuring the Port can serve business needs with top-notch facilities and creating a team that can execute the Port’s mission to attract cargo and maritime-related activity to foster economic development and create jobs. In his short time at SJPC, he’s surveyed the port’s facilities, equipment, and business model to ensure quality customer service for current tenants and customers. He’s also developed a clear vision to retain customers and develop a growth strategy that leverages relationships with stakeholders, the port’s team, and current and recently expanded facilities.
Expanding and improved capacity and facilities
The Paulsboro Marine Terminal (PMT) is key to South Jersey’s economy and growth at the port. PMT is the first new marine port on the Delaware River in the last 50 years. Since its opening in 2017, more than four million tons of imported steel slabs have moved through PMT, creating jobs and opportunities for the region. The second phase of construction of PMT is scheduled for completion in 2021. At full build-out, it will have three berths on the Delaware River and a barge berth on Mantua Creek. Currently, 45 acres are tenant occupied, with 140 acres of available space. The potential to develop that space is high with markets for wind energy farms expanding on the East Coast and the flexibility to service diverse cargo and other business needs.
SJPC is also prioritizing infrastructure needs across all of their terminals including Balzano and Broadway Marine Terminals in Camden and Salem Marine Terminal in Salem. The plans include rehabilitation of existing buildings and replacement of older buildings- incorporating modern facilities that can handle more cargo. The port is also looking at the use of solar energy to help attract new clients looking to boost sustainable practices in their operations.
Easy access and highway connections to the entire eastern seaboard of the United States is a major asset in attracting business to the port. This proximity to every major city in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states allows companies to move goods both quickly and economically. The port’s rail freight network also provides clients with the infrastructure they need to transport their products more efficiently. SJPC recently announced a $6 million grant to implement improvements to the rail system at the Joseph A. Balzano Marine Terminal to provide seamless dock to rail capacity. These improvements will expand the capability to easily move products like steel, cocoa beans, wood, and project cargo.
A team poised to gain new customers and service current ones
The employees at the port play a critical role in the everyday operations and success of the port. They are the stewards that drive customer satisfaction. SJPC’s team on the docks, in the warehouses, in the offices, and in transit sheds deliver 24/7, 365 days a year– in all sorts of weather– with a commitment to customers, tenants, and partners of the port.
“The SJPC has a long tradition of hard-working employees who go the extra mile for customers. Supporting our team and providing them with the tools they need is a critical part of our strategy,” said Saporito. “We’ve implemented several new hires earlier this year and a restructuring of internal operations to accomplish our goals.”
SJPC recently announced key additions to its executive team. Kevin Duffy is the new chief operating officer responsible for the overall management of the operations of the terminals, warehouse, vessels, and security. Duffy has 34 years of experience in marine terminal operations, having most recently worked at APM in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Brendan Dugan, newly-appointed director of business development, is a 40-year veteran of the maritime industry who has held senior-level positions with Ports America and the Port of Tacoma; he will head up efforts to add to the 4 million tons of cargo the port handles. Jonathan Atwood joined the team as chief of staff and external affairs, responsible for facilitating decisions of the executive team, implementing a centralized human resource function, and developing a more formal system of processes and procedures. Atwood was the chief of staff for New Jersey’s First Legislative District, where he managed three offices across two counties. Along with Executive Director & CEO Saporito and Chief Financial Officer Bruno Cellucci, SJPC has a team and organizational structure to continue to grow jobs and the economy of the region.
Businesses who have shipping or space needs can contact the port for a one-stop-shop of marine terminal services. Click here to learn how the SJPC advantage can help your business.