For more than three decades, John Moseley has built a career around connecting people, markets, and opportunities through international trade. As Chief Commercial Officer at Port Houston, he brings a broad perspective shaped by experience across nearly every corner of the supply chain.

Appointed Chief Commercial Officer in 2018, John leads Port Houston's commercial strategy, overseeing the port's real estate, trade development, economic development, marketing and branding, research and forecasting, and administration of Harris County Foreign Trade Zone No. 84, one of the largest foreign trade zones in the United States. His work centers on expanding Port Houston's global footprint while creating jobs and supporting the regional economy.

For John, however, the industry has always represented something much larger than cargo movement. "International trade brings the world closer," he said. "It's about culture. It's about what makes the world go around. You're helping lift economies, and you're part of something that's a lot bigger than yourself."

In his current role at Port Houston, John works alongside an executive leadership team to guide long-term commercial strategy while navigating an industry that is constantly evolving. Whether responding to shifts in global trade policy, geopolitical disruptions, or changing market conditions, adaptability has become a defining part of his work.

"We're always balancing risk while looking for new opportunities," he said. "If you've got a good team behind you, a strong strategy, and you're committed to providing excellent service, you can navigate those challenges successfully."

Leadership has also shaped every stage of John's career. He credits several mentors with opening doors early in his professional journey, beginning with his university professor, who helped him secure his first internship in international trade, followed by industry leaders who introduced him to the maritime transportation sector and guided his professional development.

"Every step of the way, I've had mentors helping me learn, grow, and recognize new opportunities," he said.

Those experiences inspired John to make mentorship a priority in his own career. Today, he actively serves on several advisory boards and organizations, including the Houston Export District Council, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, and the University of Houston-Downtown's Marilyn Davies College of Business, where he works directly with students and emerging professionals.

"I've always gravitated toward giving back," he said. "Just like people helped me along the way, I've always wanted to do the same for others."

That commitment to developing future leaders is one of the primary reasons John accepted the invitation to join the CII Board of Directors two years ago. Having worked with CII for more than fifteen years before joining the board, he was already familiar with the organization's history and mission.

"It was a great honor," he said. "Given the history of CII and its connection to the beginnings of containerization, being part of that legacy is huge."

Now serving as Treasurer and a member of CII's NextGen Committee, John is focused on helping recruit and develop the next generation of industry professionals.

"Helping bring in that next generation of leaders and opening up opportunities for them is something I'm really excited about," he said.

Throughout his career, John has been guided by several core principles: integrity, collaboration, mutual respect, and empowering others. He believes strong leadership comes from trusting people, giving them opportunities to succeed, and recognizing that meaningful accomplishments are rarely achieved alone.

"By trusting and empowering others, you're able to let them succeed and be part of the journey," he said.

When asked what advice he offers young professionals entering the industry, John's answer returns once again to relationships.

"I'd say network," he said. "Get to know others, understand their journeys, and build strong relationships. You cannot be successful by yourself. You'll need the help of others to accomplish whatever you're trying to achieve."

For John, investing time in people is every bit as important as developing technical expertise.

"Building trust and forming strong relationships is key," he said. "Putting in that effort is really where it's at."

Looking ahead, John is focused on continuing to make a meaningful contribution to the industry that has given him so much.

"I want to continue creating value," he said. "As long as I'm creating value, continuing to learn, and sharing my knowledge to help others, I'll be happy. I still have plenty of gas left in the tank, and I want to keep giving back to this industry for as long as I can."