Palmetto Railways appoints Tarek Ravenel as president and CEO

Palmetto Railways, operated by the state as a division of the S.C. Department of Commerce, appointed Tarek “T” Ravenel as president and CEO beginning Sept. 8.

Ravenel has spent over 20 years in leadership of freight rail, logistics, construction, economic development, infrastructure delivery and business operations.

“Palmetto Railways has played a vital role in South Carolina’s economic development for generations, and I am honored to lead this outstanding organization,” Ravenel said in a news release. “Having spent much of my career helping develop and deliver projects that strengthen our state’s transportation network, I am excited to work alongside our employees, customers, South Carolina Ports, SC DOT and other partners and stakeholders as we continue investing in the infrastructure, relationships and innovation that drive economic opportunity across South Carolina.”

Ravenel’s portfolio of experience includes management of complex transportation initiatives, multimillion-dollar capital programs, public-private partnerships and stakeholder relationships for supply chain and economic growth.

Prior to the Palmetto Railways role, Ravenel served as east region frieght rail market sector leader at HDR leading initiatives for Class 1 railroads, short-line railroads, ports, transit agencies, industrial clients and public-sector transportation organizations.

“Having worked closely with T for many years, I have seen firsthand the experience, leadership and commitment he brings to Palmetto Railways,” Patrick McCrory, current president and CEO of Palmetto Railways, said in the release. “T understands our organization, our people and the important role we play in supporting South Carolina’s economy. His extensive experience in freight rail and infrastructure, combined with his deep knowledge of Palmetto Railways and the relationships he has built throughout the state, will provide valuable continuity as the organization moves forward. I have tremendous confidence in T and know Palmetto Railways will be in very capable hands under his leadership.”

Before HDR, Ravenel spent a decade with Palmetto Railways as director of special projects and project manager. He directed the company’s capital improvement program and oversaw planning, design, environmental review, permitting, procurement, property acquisition and construction activities.

Additionally, as operations manager at Atlantic Coast Materials, Ravenel led importation and distribution of construction aggregates in the Charleston and Savannah ports.

“T’s extensive rail transportation and logistics experience, along with his familiarity and demonstrated commitment to Palmetto Railways, position him well to successfully transition into this role. We are confident his leadership, industry expertise and strategic approach will build on the strong foundation already in place,” Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III said in the release. “Separately, we are incredibly grateful for Patrick McCrory’s leadership and nearly 14 years of dedicated service to Palmetto Railways, strengthening the state’s infrastructure and supporting economic growth.”

Palmetto Railways works to provide safe and reliable rail services that support economic development in South Carolina.