Wilson Kwong to step down as CEO of Hactl in January

Hong Kong handler Hactl has confirmed that its chief executive, Wilson Kwong, is leaving the company at the end of January, after eight years at the helm of the handler.

Mr Kwong will join rail operator MTR Corp – which has just raised $3bn via a public bond – as Hong Kong transport services director and a member of the executive directorate.

“This was a very difficult decision for me, after eight wonderful years leading the world’s definitive air cargo ground handler; but I feel the time is right to take up a new challenge outside the air cargo arena, and to make way for a new leader to stamp their own mark on this iconic business,” he said.

“I am proud to be leaving Hactl in the best possible shape, a team which is dedicated, hard-working and simply the best in the business. I would like to thank them all for the parts they play every day in this company’s sustained success. Until my departure, my team and I will continue to work together to deliver the service excellence for which Hactl has become renowned.”

The announcement came as Hactl celebrated two awards at last week’s Supply Chain Asia: Air Cargo Terminal Operator of the Year; and Supply Chain Innovator of the year. And they follow a slew of awards this year for the operator.

Under Mr Kwong’s leadership, Hactl appears to have thrived, and has also led the way in sustainability, with initiatives such as upcycling old uniforms, part of its 2018 Green Terminal programme. The company has committed to achieving a 75% reduction in waste through recycling by 2030.

Hactl, which is privately owned by Jardine Pacific, Wharf, CK Hutchison Holdings and China National Aviation Holding, does not release its financial results.

Mr Kwong will be much missed in the air cargo industry. A successor will be announced “in due course”, said Hactl.

Mr Kwong himself took over from another industry favourite, Mark Whitehead. Both had previously worked for Hongkong Land.