Dedicated to Your Success
The Port of Memphis is led by a team of experienced professionals committed to fostering growth, facilitating efficient transportation, and supporting the industries that make Memphis a global logistics powerhouse. Our leadership and staff facilitate lasting economic impact for the region, while providing top-tier service to businesses using the Port’s facilities.
President and CEO
Vice President Port and Industrial Properties/Executive Director, Memphis & Shelby County Port Commission
Operations Manager
Office Manager
Crew Chief
Crew Person
Crew Person
Crew Person
Vice Chairman
Chairman
Secretary
Board Member
Treasurer
Board Member
Board Member
President and CEO
Dr. Joann Massey is the President and CEO of the Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County (EDGE), and a nationally recognized leader in economic development and community transformation. She also serves as the President of the International Port of Memphis. With honors including the Memphis Business Journal’s Power 100 and the Tri-State Defender’s Woman of Excellence, she brings decades of experience in driving economic growth.
Dr. Massey holds an MBA from Benedictine University, dual business degrees from LeMoyne-Owen College, and certifications in Economic Development from Harvard University’s Executive Education Program; Managing Economic Development Organizations from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC); and Compliance Administration from Morgan State University. She is an active civic leader, global speaker, and mentor, proudly serving with Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The River City (TN) Chapter of Links, Inc., Junior Achievement of Memphis & the Midsouth, and the Memphis Urban League.
Vice President Port and Industrial Properties/Executive Director, Memphis & Shelby County Port Commission
Mr. Richardson has over 30 years of experience in industrial, economic, and environmental development within the realm of the International Port of Memphis. In his capacity, he assumes comprehensive oversight of port activities, encompassing the management and preservation of the McKellar Lake/Presidents Island Complex, Pidgeon Industrial Harbor, and Pidgeon Industrial Park.
Mr. Richardson’s contributions extend beyond his operational role, as he holds key positions on various civic and community boards, including the National Waterways Conference, the Transportation Research Board in Washington, D.C., the Memphis Plywood Company, and the Board of Inland Rivers, Ports, and Terminals (former Board Chair). Notably, he serves as the Chairman of the Board for the Area Maritime Security Committee – Memphis and assumes the role of Basin Chairman for the Lower Mississippi River. Additionally, he is a member of the Presidents Island Industrial Association.
Educationally, Mr. Richardson is armed with a Master of Arts in City and Regional Planning from the University of Memphis, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Operations Manager
Larry Baker serves as the Operations Manager, collaborating closely with the Executive Director. He directs, coordinates, and holds functional authority for projects within the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission’s jurisdiction, including Presidents Island, Frank C. Pidgeon Industrial Park, and the Defense Depot.
Larry holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Mississippi State University (2018). Before becoming the Operations Manager, he gained valuable experience in the power industry, working with natural gas power plants. This background equips him with technical insights crucial for effective management.
In his role, Larry skillfully blends his academic knowledge and industry experience. His leadership ensures smooth teamwork and efficient project management, contributing to the success of the Memphis & Shelby County Port Commission.
Office Manager
Amber Shepheard is a skilled office manager, bringing over a decade of administrative expertise in corporate and governmental relations to her role at the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission. With a successful six-year tenure in this position, she has consistently demonstrated her capabilities in streamlining operations, optimizing workflow efficiency, and fostering harmonious working environments. Ms. Shepheard’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Memphis, providing her with a well-rounded understanding of human dynamics and organizational behavior.
Crew Chief
Keon Jackson serves as Crew Chief for the Memphis & Shelby County Port Commission, bringing hands-on experience and a strong work ethic to the team. With a background in facility maintenance, cleaning, and equipment operation, Keon oversees daily field operations and ensures that Port properties are maintained to the highest standards. His prior experience in commercial cleaning, groundskeeping, and mechanical work supports the Commission’s commitment to operational excellence and safety. Keon’s leadership and technical skills contribute to the efficient upkeep and presentation of Port Commission facilities across all sites.
Crew Person
William Morris is a crew member who works under the guidance of the Port of Memphis Crew Chief and alongside a dedicated team. Together, they ensure the upkeep of properties within the Memphis & Shelby County Port Commission’s jurisdiction. Their combined efforts encompass diligent cleaning and orderly maintenance, playing a pivotal role in advancing the operational excellence of the Commission.