On The Move: Tim Pinter, Melissa Folse and Candace L. Griffin

The Port of Greater Baton Rouge has announced three director-level appointments. Tim Pinter is the new director of business development, Melissa Folse is director of corporate and legal affairs, and Candace L. Griffin is director of communications and grants.

“These appointments represent an important step in ensuring that the port has the leadership and expertise needed to advance its mission,” Jay Hardman, the port’s outgoing executive director, said. “We look forward to the contributions each director will make and are grateful to those whose dedicated service has helped position our organization for the future.”

Pinter will lead the port’s business development efforts, focusing on strategic partnerships, growth opportunities and relationships with stakeholders and industry partners. He brings more than 20 years of experience in operations, logistics, international trade and business development, most recently in several high-level stevedoring and logistics roles overseeing domestic and international operations. His appointment follows the previously announced promotion of Greg Johnson to executive director. Johnson had served as deputy director while also overseeing business development.

Folse will oversee the port’s legal strategy, regulatory compliance, contract review, governance and risk management and will serve as general counsel. She succeeds Steve Glusman, who is retiring after more than 40 years of service to the port, including the past 11 years as general counsel. Folse brings more than a decade of port industry experience, having held legal and leadership positions with the Port of South Louisiana, Plaquemines Port and private-sector organizations.

Griffin will lead the port’s communications strategy, including media relations, crisis communications, public relations, digital communications and stakeholder engagement. She will also lead the port’s efforts to identify and pursue grant funding for infrastructure improvements, economic development and other strategic priorities. Griffin previously served 11 years as deputy director of the Ports Association of Louisiana and spent 14 years running her own public relations consulting firm.