FORTH Ports, the UK’s third-largest ports group, has announced two key management changes as it pursues its ambitious growth plans.
Paul Dale, currently asset and site director for the Port of Tilbury, has been appointed as chief operating officer.
Dale, who joined the company as a 19-year-old marine operative in 1989, will now oversee operational excellence across the group, lead infrastructure and technology transformation, and manage the marine, engineering and safety functions.
Derek Knox, director of operations in Scotland, and Alan McPherson, group chief harbour master, will now report directly to him.
Carole Cran, the group’s chief commercial and financial officer, will step down after seven years with the company.
Cran, who will leave in November, played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategy and culture.
In the intervening period the Group’s finance and IT functions will be overseen by Matt McCreath, director of finance.
Commercial activity will be led by Forth Ports’ strong commercial and legal teams.
Stuart Wallace, Forth Ports’ chief executive officer, said: “Paul Dale is a very experienced ports professional and has already been instrumental in our growth and success at Tilbury.
“I am confident that, as we enter this next phase in Forth Ports’ development, he will prove to be an even stronger member of the Group’s executive team, helping us to demonstrate strength of character and deliver excellence across the business.
“I want to express my deep gratitude to Carole for her exceptional contributions during her time at Forth Ports and wish her every success as she embarks on the next chapter in her very successful career.
“Her leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in our success during her time here.
“She has encouraged us all to think differently and contributed significantly to the culture of the organisation. Carole will be greatly missed by everyone here.”
