Phyllis Saathoff

Phyllis Saathoff has dedicated more than three decades to advancing Texas’ maritime industry through thoughtful leadership, sound financial management and commitment to creating long-term value for the communities and businesses the state’s ports serve. As Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Port Freeport, she leads one of the nation’s fastest-growing ports, overseeing operations, infrastructure development and strategic initiatives that support international trade and economic growth.

After beginning her career at Port Freeport in 1992, Phyllis served in several leadership roles before joining the Port of Houston Authority executive team in 2012. She returned to Port Freeport as Chief Executive Officer in 2016, where she has led the organization through one of the most significant periods in its history.

Among her greatest accomplishments was leading the successful completion of the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, a multi-year effort that deepened the federal navigation channel to 56 feet and established Port Freeport as the deepest port in the Gulf of America. The project strengthens the Port’s ability to serve larger vessels, expands opportunities for existing and future customers, and reinforces Texas’ role in global commerce. During her tenure, the Port has also expanded its container, automotive and breakbulk operations while making significant investments in terminal infrastructure, rail connectivity and cargo-handling capabilities.

Phyllis is widely respected throughout the maritime industry and has served in leadership roles that help shape transportation policy and port development across Texas and the nation. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Port Authorities, is a past chair of the Port Authority Advisory Committee to the Texas Department of Transportation and is the Immediate Past President of the Texas Ports Association. Phyllis has also served as President of the National Association of Foreign Trade Zones and served on numerous community organization boards.

A Certified Public Accountant and Certified Professional Port Manager®, Phyllis earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Her leadership has been recognized with the University of Houston-Clear Lake Distinguished Alumni Award, the Stephen F. Austin Leadership Award, the Texas Department of Transportation’s Russell H. Perry Award, the Junior Achievement 2025 Hall of Fame Award, the 2026 Outstanding Woman of the Year Award from the Brazosport Area Chamber of Commerce, and numerous industry recognitions that reflect her lasting contributions to Texas’ maritime community.