Peel Ports launches recruitment drive for more 'bold business leaders'

Peel Ports has announced plans to hire 250 new staff this year, “in anticipation of new commercial opportunities and further business growth”.

It said it was looking for new function heads, senior managers, operations experts and supply chain leaders “from beyond the traditional port community”, as it aims to “expand and strengthen a wider range of logistics services”.

Chief executive Mark Whitworth (pictured above), said: “Ours is an increasingly diversified business across locations, services and commodities. That’s allowed us to continue thriving despite Brexit uncertainty.

“This is an excellent opportunity for driven and bold business leaders from across the supply chain sector that want to make an impact with a company that’s as ambitious as they are.”

The company said it had seen 7.2% compound growth over the previous six years, while last year it increased turnover by 11%, coinciding with the 2M’s decision to establish a permanent transatlantic container service, the creation of new rail freight service from Liverpool to the north, as well as “continued growth with key customers such as national retailer B&M”.

It also opened a new linkspan at the port of Heysham last year, while the expansion of the Liverpool2 terminal continues.

“The vacancies are across the company’s network of ports, including Clydeport, Heysham, Liverpool, Dublin, Great Yarmouth, London Medway and Manchester Ship Canal. The managerial roles will largely being focused on further improving Peel Ports’ commercial performance, through service and product innovations,” the company said.

Its staff count increased last year by more than 430, of which 330 employees were transferred in from agency staff and the remaining 100 roles were due to growth.

“This recruitment drive is in addition to replacing staff through natural turnover,” it added.