Chambrel Riley-Williams

Chief Administrative Officer Port of South Louisiana

As Chief Administrative Officer of the Port of South Louisiana, Chambrel Riley-Williams considers it a privilege to be a part of an organization that operates as an economic engine for the community. And it’s not just this community that the Port of South Louisiana influences—it supports and creates local, regional, and national economies by creating jobs and improving the overall transport of goods.

A young black woman, Chambrel has faced a number of challenges throughout her career in the maritime industry.

“To overcome those challenges, I focused on understanding my purpose, my role, and my goal,” she says. “Knowing and accepting those three elements in any situation allows me to be prepared for any challenge I may face.”

For her, preparedness is key to leadership.

“Always be prepared for the room you’re walking into,” she says.

With 12 years of experience in the port maritime industry focusing on finance and administration, Chambrel credits her extensive education for impacting her life and guiding her choices. Chambrel holds an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Delgado Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of New Orleans, and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She is also a Certified Port Executive and a Certified Public Accountant.

“The desire to know and understand what is going on around me has inspired me to enter the field of accounting and public administration,” she says. “I was always told, ‘If you want to know what’s going on, follow the money.’”

Beyond her day-to-day duties, Chambrel values the Port’s partnerships with Riverworks Discovery and local high schools and their efforts to educate students on job opportunities within the maritime industry.

Port of South Louisiana

1720 LA Highway 44, Reserve portsl.com