Forth Ports has announced the promotion of David Webster and Derek Knox to newly created Regional Director roles. To enhance the growing business and drive Forth Ports’ long-term success across the UK, they will join the group’s Executive Board with immediate effect and take up their new roles from 31 March 2025.
David Webster (currently Commercial Director) is promoted to Regional Director for Tilbury, assuming full responsibility for leading and further developing the Tilbury business on the River Thames. With extensive experience and a track record in growth and diversification, David will focus on leading the team at the Port of Tilbury to drive its continued success. David has been with Forth Ports for 10 years in senior management roles.
Derek Knox (currently Director of Operations Scotland) is promoted to Regional Director for Scotland, assuming full responsibility for leading the Scottish teams at its seven ports in Scotland and including the company’s port services and infrastructure division, Forth Projects. Derek has played a key role in developing Forth Ports’ Scotland strategy, strengthening its core business, and also leads on the Forth Green Freeport activities. Derek has worked with Forth Ports for over 25 years in a number of senior roles at its busy ports across Scotland.
Commenting on the promotions, Stuart Wallace, Chief Executive Officer, said:
“As we navigate an evolving market landscape, our focus remains on delivering sustainable growth. Capitalising on the strength, capability and expertise within our business, we are excited to make these new leadership appointments. My congratulations to both David and Derek on their well-deserved promotions.”
In their new roles, David and Derek will report directly to Chief Executive, Stuart Wallace. Paul Dale, Chief Operating Officer, will provide Group strategic support and guidance as these regions evolve, ensuring a strong focus on operational excellence, delivery for customers and achieving the group’s ambition of being the industry leader in the key UK markets in which it operates, currently and in the future, capitalising on Forth Ports’ geographic strengths and sectoral expertise.
As a prominent partner in both the Thames Freeport and Forth Green Freeport, Forth Ports is committed to accelerating the UK’s drive to Net Zero, creating high quality jobs and driving the green economy.
