Mobile, AL – The Alabama Port Authority announced that John Driscoll the Port Authority’s Director and CEO, is retiring.

Driscoll’s decision was announced during the Port Authority’s regularly scheduled board of directors meeting today. The Port Authority’s Board of Directors named Doug Otto, the Port’s Chief Engineering Officer, as interim Director, and a global search for a new, permanent director will begin immediately.

“As Director, John has implemented major capital projects that will position the Port for future growth. These include the deepening and widening of the Port of Mobile’s ship channel, new investments at the McDuffie Coal Terminal and the APM container terminal, and breaking ground on the Montgomery Intermodal Container Facility. We thank him for his service to the State of Alabama, and wish him well in retirement,” said Zeke Smith, Chairman of the Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors.

“The Alabama Port Authority is truly a world-class operation,” said Driscoll. “I am proud of our achievements that we have made as a team. Those accomplishments have positioned the Port to provide excellent service for our customers for generations to come. While I’ll miss the Port and the people associated with it, it is time for me to focus on my wife, children, and extended family.”

Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne said, “Under John’s leadership, the Port of Mobile has continued to strengthen its position as one of our region’s most vital economic engines. John’s guidance has helped drive growth, expand global trade opportunities and ensure the Port remains a cornerstone of Alabama’s economy. We are grateful for his dedication to advancing Mobile’s reputation as a hub for commerce, shipbuilding and international trade.”

Driscoll was named the Port’s Director and CEO in 2020. He is a Maryland native and previously served in leadership roles in the maritime industry in California and internationally.

“We’re also pleased to name Doug Otto as the Port’s interim Director,” Smith added. “From his time as Chief Engineering Officer at the Port to his extensive background with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Doug is well-positioned to lead the Port Authority through this transition as we continue and enhance major projects in the coming months.”

The Port Authority Board of Directors also today initiated a global search for a new, permanent director. Otto will begin serving as interim Director immediately to ensure continuity on major projects and commercial development.