Blaine LaFontaine was named Executive Director in January 2023.He joined HCPHC as Chief Operations Officer/Port Director in March 2021. In his role, LaFontaine is responsible for overseeing the organization's ongoing operations, procedures, and development at Port Bienville Industrial Park and Stennis International Airport.

LaFontaine has worked previously in economic development as Pearl River County's Chief Economic Developer for one year. Prior to his career in economic development, LaFontaine served a 4-year term as Board President on the Hancock County Board of Supervisors as well a 4- year term as a councilman for the City of Diamondhead.

LaFontaine received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering Technology and a Master of Science Degree in Economic Development from The University of Southern Mississippi.

In 2016, LaFontaine was recognized by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Awards as a winner of the prestigious Top 10 Under 40 award. In 2019, LaFontaine was recognized by the Mississippi Economic Council Awards as a winner of the prestigious Top 50 Under 40 award.