Tom D. Capozzi

Thomas D. Capozzi is the chief sales officer (CSO) of Virginia International Terminals (VIT), LLC, where he is responsible for managing and coordinating The Port of Virginia’s global commercial business activity through the sales division.

Tom started his career with the Virginia Port Authority (VPA) in sales and marketing in 1999. In 2009 following a reorganization, Tom was transferred to VIT, which is the VPA’s private, terminal operating subsidiary.

“Growing and evolving with The Port of Virginia during the last 15 years, I’ve learned a lot. My management philosophy has changed as well and it is centered on cross-leadership and communication. Instead of the hierarchical approach, I like to empower the team to make choices and involve colleagues from other departments in the decision making process. Communication is key in a large organization such as the port.”

Tom is constantly developing new goals and plans for the sales team to support the overall company by creating measurable objectives and strategies to grow business. Working in a competitive business environment, Tom’s leadership style is especially anchored in fortitude and perseverance through challenges that arise. When working with customers and team members alike, honesty, helpfulness and accessibility are keys for success.

Tom values his personal interactions with colleagues inside the organization and customers of the company as the most rewarding aspects of his job. He enjoys meeting people from different cultures and developing genuine personal relationships with team members and clients.

Prior to joining the port, Tom’s career in the liner shipping business included serving as regional manager of sales and operations for “K” Line America Inc. In that position, he was responsible for all sales activity in Virginia and Maryland. He also supervised port, rail and truck operations in the ports of Virginia and Baltimore. Tom began his career in shipping as a sales representative for Evergreen America Corporation, handling sales in Virginia and North Carolina.

Tom has a bachelor’s degree in political science and international studies from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in business administration and global management from the University of Phoenix and a port management degree from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy.

He is the currently serves as chairman of the Advisory Committee to ODU’s International Maritime Ports and Logistics Management Institute. Tom was the recipient of the “Commerce Builder Award,” as chosen by the Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council (HRGCC). This annual award recognizes an individual for their efforts in stimulating commerce through The Port of Virginia.