Georgia Ports Authority Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Georgia Ports Authority has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, human resources, communications, and executive leadership.

Driven by efficiency, Georgia Ports Authority is dedicated to providing customers with the most efficient, productive port facilities in the nation, creating jobs and business opportunities to benefit all Georgians, and moving cargo faster through leading-edge technology.

Leadership Roles at Georgia Ports Authority

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Griffith Lynch
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michaela Thompson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Issa Ali
  • President - Kevin Price
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Lise Altman
  • Chief Communications Officer - Thomas Boyd
  • Griffith Lynch - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Griffith Lynch, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Georgia Ports Authority, directs the overarching strategy and executive leadership for the organization. This role involves setting the vision for the authority's growth, ensuring operational excellence across all port facilities, and driving initiatives that enhance international trade and investment within Georgia. Lynch's leadership focuses on maintaining the competitive edge of Georgia's ports through the adoption of cutting-edge technology and advanced operational methodologies. The President & Chief Executive Officer is responsible for fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry partners, and the communities served by the ports. Griffith Lynch ensures that the authority's activities align with its mission to create jobs and economic opportunities for the state's residents, while also prioritizing long-term sustainability and security for future operations. This executive guides the organization's financial health and operational efficiency, directly impacting the movement of cargo and the overall economic vitality of the region.

    Michaela Thompson - Chief Financial Officer

    Michaela Thompson, the Chief Financial Officer at Georgia Ports Authority, directs the financial strategy and fiscal management of the organization. This executive is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and capital allocation to support the authority's growth and development initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the ports, managing investments in leading-edge technology and infrastructure improvements. Thompson's leadership ensures that financial resources are strategically deployed to maximize efficiency, create jobs, and enhance the economic benefits for Georgians. Michaela Thompson collaborates with the President & Chief Executive Officer and other executives to develop financial plans that support long-term performance, security, and competitive positioning in the global trade market. This role is essential for maintaining investor confidence and enabling the authority to continue its mission of enriching the state's economy.

    Issa Ali - Chief Operating Officer

    Issa Ali, the Chief Operating Officer at Georgia Ports Authority, oversees the day-to-day operational functions and efficiency of all port facilities. This critical role involves managing the complex logistics of cargo movement, ensuring seamless operations across terminals, and implementing strategies to maximize productivity and throughput. The Chief Operating Officer directs teams responsible for terminal management, equipment utilization, and workforce deployment to facilitate the rapid and secure handling of goods. Ali's focus is on leveraging leading-edge technology and innovative operational practices to maintain Georgia's competitive advantage in international trade. By optimizing processes and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer directly contributes to the authority's mission of moving cargo faster and more efficiently. Issa Ali works closely with other C-suite executives to align operational strategies with the company's broader goals of economic development and job creation for Georgians, ensuring the smooth functioning of the entire supply chain.

    Kevin Price - President

    Kevin Price, the President at Georgia Ports Authority, holds a key executive leadership position focused on driving strategic initiatives and operational success. This role involves collaborating closely with the Chief Executive Officer to set the direction for the authority, ensuring that all departments function cohesively towards achieving organizational goals. The President oversees critical aspects of the port's operations, focusing on enhancing efficiency, productivity, and the adoption of advanced technologies to maintain a competitive edge in international trade. Price's leadership contributes directly to the authority's mission of creating jobs and economic opportunities for Georgians by facilitating the smooth and rapid movement of cargo. Kevin Price is instrumental in fostering strong relationships with industry partners and stakeholders, ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of Georgia's ports. This executive's purview includes ensuring the long-term sustainability and security of the authority's operations for future generations.
    Kevin Price

    Lise Altman - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lise Altman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Georgia Ports Authority, leads the strategic direction for all human capital management initiatives. This executive is responsible for developing and implementing policies and programs that support the authority's workforce, foster a productive work environment, and ensure compliance with labor regulations. The Chief Human Resources Officer oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and employee relations, all crucial for attracting and retaining the skilled personnel needed to operate state-of-the-art port facilities. Altman's focus is on building a robust and engaged workforce that drives the authority's mission of creating jobs and economic opportunities for Georgians. Lise Altman collaborates with leadership to align HR strategies with operational needs, ensuring that the organization has the talent necessary to maintain its competitive edge through technology and operational excellence. This role is fundamental to sustaining the authority's performance and security for tomorrow.

    Thomas Boyd - Chief Communications Officer

    Thomas Boyd, the Chief Communications Officer at Georgia Ports Authority, directs the organization's external and internal communication strategies. This executive is responsible for shaping and disseminating the authority's message to stakeholders, including the public, media, government officials, and employees, ensuring consistent and transparent communication about port operations and economic impact. The Chief Communications Officer manages public relations, media relations, corporate branding, and crisis communications, playing a vital role in maintaining the authority's reputation and public trust. Boyd's leadership ensures that the public understands the significant contributions of Georgia's ports to international trade and job creation for Georgians. Thomas Boyd works closely with executive leadership to articulate the authority's vision, its commitment to efficiency and technology, and its dedication to future growth and security. This role is essential for building strong relationships and fostering support for the authority's mission.
    Thomas Boyd

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Georgia Ports Authority Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Georgia Ports Authority?
    Georgia Ports Authority is led by Griffith Lynch (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michaela Thompson (Chief Financial Officer) and Issa Ali (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Georgia Ports Authority’s executive team?
    The executive team of Georgia Ports Authority includes leaders such as Griffith Lynch (President & Chief Executive Officer), Michaela Thompson (Chief Financial Officer), Issa Ali (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Georgia Ports Authority have?
    Georgia Ports Authority has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Georgia Ports Authority’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Georgia Ports Authority includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Human Resources Officer.