Reinhart begins his tenure as CEO at the Port of Virginia

John F. Reinhart began his tenure Feb. 10 as chief executive officer and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority (VPA) and will be the fourth person to head the agency that owns and operates container and breakbulk terminals on behalf of the state. 

Reinhart will lead The Port of Virginia, which in 2013 generated record-setting container volume and initiated a restructuring of the relationship between VPA and its terminal operating company, Virginia International Terminals LLC. He will oversee the completion and full implementation of the restructuring effort, which is focused on improving the port’s operational results and its competitive position.  The port, with its storied history, multiple natural assets and strong infrastructure, plays an important role in serving the Commonwealth and being a regional economic engine, Reinhart said.  “It is a privilege to join The Port of Virginia and to serve as one of its stewards,” Reinhart said. “We have significant challenges to address to achieve the potential of the port and serve our customers, constituents and the Commonwealth. Working closely with the administration, the VPA’s board and  colleagues, we will chart the course to achieve the results to move the port forward and serve with integrity and purpose.”  In his new role, Reinhart is responsible for the broad programmatic areas of business development and growth, strategic marketing, finance and operations of Virginia’s marine terminal facilities: APM Terminals Virginia, Newport News Marine Terminal, Norfolk International Terminals, Portsmouth Marine Terminal, Port of Richmond and the Virginia Inland Port.  Following an extensive executive search that began in spring 2013, the VPA Board of Commissioners publically announced Reinhart’s appointment last October.  “John has challenges before him and we’re confident he is the person to finish the job of bringing The Port of Virginia together, ensuring that our business processes are sound and beneficial to the Commonwealth and the customer and fine-tune the whole organization with an eye on efficiency and returning value to the bottom line,” said Jeffrey D. Wassmer, chairman of the VPA board.  Reinhart brings 23 years of diverse maritime experience to the VPA that includes employment with Maersk Inc., Universal Maritime Services (UMS) and Maersk Line Limited (MLL). In 2000, Reinhart was named chief executive officer of Norfolk-based MLL, and awarded the concurrent title of president in 2004; he served on MLL’s Board of Directors for the last 14 years.  “It is an honor to join the talented and dedicated team and to have the opportunity to lead the development of this port,” Reinhart said.”  Reinhart received his bachelor’s degree in general studies with a focus on political science from Ohio University and his executive MBA from the University of Michigan. He and his wife, Mary, are the parents of three children and have made Virginia Beach their home for 14 years.