South Jersey Ports (SJP) in the USA has appointed Joseph Maressa Jr as chairman of the board, succeeding Richard Alaimo who is stepping down from the role after 32 years.
Alaimo will continue to contribute to SJP as a member of the board of directors. Throughout his tenure with the port, he has played a central role in its growth from a single marine terminal in Camden to operations that now span four marine terminals across three cities.
Maressa, an attorney and entrepreneur, has been a board member for 20 years. He is co-manager of Maressa-Patterson and president of Title America.
Meanwhile, William Higgins has been appointed as vice chairman. He is a retired New Jersey State Police captain, and, from 2007 to 2012, he served as director of port facilities security, human resources, and safety at the port.
Brendan Dugan, who currently serves as assistant executive director and chief commercial officer, will assume the position of interim executive director.
“This leadership transition represents both continuity and renewal for SJP. With Maressa and Higgins at the helm, Dugan guiding executive operations, and Alaimo continuing to serve on the board, SJP remains rooted in experience while charting a course for the future,” said the port authority.
Earlier this year, SJP reported strong growth in cargo activity during the first quarter of 2025.
