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After nearly five years as Chief Executive Officer and six years within the business, Claudio Veritiero is standing down from his position at Peel Ports Group.
Mark Whitworth, Non-Executive Chairman and former Peel Ports Group Chief Executive, will become Executive Chairman on an interim basis while a successor is appointed.
During his tenure, Claudio Veritiero has led a period of significant growth and transformation at Peel Ports Group, delivering annual profitability growth of 9% and substantial increases in revenue.
He has overseen major strategic investments across the business, including the £28 million Alexandra Complex warehousing development at the Port of Liverpool, the £30 million expansion of RoRo facilities at London Medway, and a £25 million investment in new ship-to-shore cranes at the Port of Greenock. He also led the acquisition of Humber Bulk Terminal, further strengthening the Group's infrastructure and growth potential.
Together, the investments have strengthened the resilience, capacity and long-term competitiveness of the UK's supply chains, creating new opportunities for customers, supporting employment, and delivering lasting economic value to the regions in which Peel Ports Group operates.
These assets, along with other transformational projects which Claudio has spearheaded will continue to play a vital role in facilitating trade, enabling growth and supporting the UK's critical infrastructure for many years to come.
Reflecting on his decision, Claudio said:
“This was a decision I reached after a great deal of thought, so I can devote more time to my family in the South East and to some important personal priorities.
“It has been a huge privilege to lead Peel Ports Group through such an important period of sustained growth and transformation, and to work with so many talented, experienced and committed people.
“I leave with enormous pride in what we have achieved together and with complete confidence in the future of the business.”
Mark Whitworth, Executive Chairman for Peel Ports Group said:
“This is a very personal decision by Claudio which we understand and respect. The company is very grateful for the extraordinary effort he has devoted to the company during his time with us.
“His leadership has continued a period of growth and high performance throughout very challenging times, especially considering the global economy. He leaves with our very best wishes.”
Peel Ports Group has appointed current Chief Operating Officer, David Huck, as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
David will now lead the UK's second-largest port group, a critical national infrastructure business that generates £820 million in annual revenue and handles approximately 60 million tonnes of cargo each year through its network of ports, terminals and logistics operations.
With 16 years of experience across a range of senior leadership roles within the business, including almost a decade on the Executive team, David brings an exceptional depth of knowledge, operational expertise and strategic insight that will help accelerate Peel Ports Group's ambitions in the years ahead.
Prior to his appointment as CEO, David served as Chief Operating Officer of Peel Ports Group and Chairman of the Port of Liverpool and Manchester Port Security Authority.
Earlier this month, former CEO Claudio Veritiero stood down from his position to devote more time to his family in the South East and to some important personal priorities.
David Huck, Group Chief Executive Officer, said:
“I am proud to succeed Claudio, who has led Peel Ports Group through a period of significant growth, investment and transformation during his five-year tenure.
As Chief Operating Officer, I have worked closely alongside him to deliver strong financial and operational performance in a challenging market.
We will now build on that momentum, pursuing our ambitious growth plans and continuing our journey towards becoming the UK's leading port operator.
Our focus will remain on delivering exceptional service for customers, investing in our infrastructure and people, and creating long-term value for the communities and supply chains we support.
Peel Ports Group's success is driven by its people, and I am privileged to work alongside some of the most talented and dedicated professionals in the industry. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to leading the business through its next phase of growth and achievement.”