Trailer Bridge has named Charles Gittens its next chief executive officer, effective Nov. 2, as the carrier continues investing in its ocean transportation operations and Puerto Rico service.
The Jacksonville-based company announced the appointment Oct. 26.
Gittens succeeds Mitch Luciano, who left the company Oct. 1. He had served as CEO since 2015.
Gittens brings more than 30 years of transportation and logistics experience, including leadership roles in Caribbean shipping, commercial strategy and business operations, according to Trailer Bridge. Most recently, he served as president of trade for King Ocean Services, overseeing operations across the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Eastern Caribbean.
Previously, Gittens was president and chief commercial officer of Seacor Island Lines. Trailer Bridge credited him with increasing revenue by 115% during his tenure while expanding services and improving operational efficiency.
“Charles is a valuable addition to Trailer Bridge, combining extensive industry expertise with proven commercial and operational leadership in the Caribbean trade,” said Eric Fabrikant, chairman of Trailer Bridge’s board, in a statement. “The Board is confident in the trajectory of the business, and his experience, together with the strength of the existing team, positions Trailer Bridge for long-term success.”
Gittens’ appointment comes as Trailer Bridge undertakes upgrades to its fleet and supporting operations. The comapny sold its domestic logistics division in 2025; recent initiatives include more than $9 million in improvements to its roll-on/roll-off barges, including onboard generators designed to expand refrigerated cargo capacity. It has also enhanced fleetwide monitoring technology and entered new long-term partnerships supporting terminal operations and tug services.
“I am excited to join Trailer Bridge and work alongside a team with an excellent reputation for customer service and a commitment to the markets it serves,” Gittens said. “The company has a well-established position in Puerto Rico, and I look forward to building on that foundation and working closely with customers and partners to support the continued growth of the business.”
Founded in 1991 by transportation pioneer Malcom McLean, Trailer Bridge operates roll-on/roll-off and lift-on/lift-off barges serving the Puerto Rico trade. Its cargo includes containers, vehicles, heavy equipment, oversized freight and breakbulk shipments.
Why it matters: Gittens takes over as Trailer Bridge concentrates on its ocean transportation business following an agreement to sell its domestic logistics division in 2025.
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