Commentary: L.A. port puts Seroka in charge

   In early June, Gene Seroka, APL’s former head of commercial in the Americas region, was officially appointed the new executive director of the Port of Los Angeles.
   His selection by the L.A. City Council was applauded widely by industry representatives. He replaced Geraldine Knatz, who announced her retirement as L.A. port director last October.
   Vilma Martinez, president of the Los Angeles Harbor Commission, said Seroka has impeccable credentials.
   “He has worked closely with every link in the global supply chain, with much of his career focused on Asia and the Americas, and that experience, coupled with his strategic vision and collaborative leadership style, will take our port to new heights,” Martinez said.
   Seroka has “extensive contacts and relationships throughout the supply chain which span the world,” said Michele Grubbs, vice president of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association. “Choosing Gene is a clear affirmation that the Port of Los Angeles is customer-focused and committed to retaining its standing as the No. 1 container port in the United States.”
   Seroka began working for APL in 1988 after graduating from the University of New Orleans.
   Overseeing the nation’s largest container port will not be easy, but Seroka appears ready for the challenge.