---
title: "SC Ports names Patrick McCrory Chief Operating Officer"
url: https://www.herecharleston.com/2026/08/20/sc-ports-names-patrick-mccrory-coo/
date: 2026-08-20T17:15:24+00:00
modified: 2026-08-20T17:15:24+00:00
author: "Samir Jefferson"
categories: ["Business"]
site: "HERE Charleston"
attribution: "HERE Charleston"
---

# SC Ports names Patrick McCrory Chief Operating Officer

*Source: [HERE Charleston](https://www.herecharleston.com/2026/08/20/sc-ports-names-patrick-mccrory-coo/) — August 20, 2026 by Samir Jefferson*

South Carolina Ports has appointed Patrick McCrory as its new Chief Operating Officer, a role effective October 5. McCrory will lead a team of 500 individuals, bringing extensive experience in safety, transportation, logistics, and rail operations to the port.

In his new position, McCrory will oversee the safe and efficient management of the port’s container terminals, ro-ro and breakbulk operations, intermodal facilities, and two rail-served inland ports. He will also collaborate with numerous maritime and logistics partners.

Before this appointment, McCrory served as president and CEO of Palmetto Railways, a long-standing rail partner of SC Ports. His previous roles at Palmetto Railways included vice president, chief commercial officer, and chief operations officer.

SC Ports President and CEO Micah Mallace noted McCrory’s prior work with the ports, highlighting his contributions to enhancing the state’s freight rail infrastructure and increasing cargo volumes. Mallace emphasized McCrory’s focus on safety and reliability, his understanding of the business, commitment to service, and innovative approach to logistics, which are expected to benefit customers and the team as the port aims for market growth.

The selection of McCrory was based on his leadership expertise across various areas, including freight rail, intermodal terminals, marine terminal operations, supply chain management, workforce development, and the execution of major infrastructure projects.

McCrory expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with the operations teams at South Carolina Ports. He stated that South Carolina companies rely on the ports for the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of imports and exports. He believes that by maintaining excellent port operations, the organization will support cargo growth and contribute to job creation within South Carolina.

The SC Ports Board of Directors unanimously approved McCrory’s appointment as COO.