The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology

Peel Ports’ recruitment drive

(Posted on 11/03/19)

Peel Ports in the UK is set to bring 250 new staff on board during 2019 in anticipation of new commercial opportunities and further business growth. It is particularly aiming to recruit function heads, senior managers, operations experts, and supply chain and business leaders from beyond the traditional port community as it aims to expand and strengthen its wider range of logistics services.

Mark Whitworth, Chief Executive, 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.”

Peel Ports has experienced 7.2% compound growth in the last six years. Last year the company increased turnover by 11%. It also announced a new permanent transatlantic container service by MSC and Maersk, a new rail freight service from Liverpool to the north, and continued growth with key customers such as national retailer B&M.

The company opened a new linkspan at the Port of Heysham last year and is progressing the expansion of the Liverpool2 terminal, with other investments planned across the whole port network.

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 focussed on further improving Peel Ports’ commercial performance, through service and product innovations.

Peel Ports increased its staff count last year by over 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.

Earlier this year it announced it was looking to enrol more than 100 employees onto courses relating to leadership and development, accounting and port operations, utilising the apprenticeship levy as fully as possible to enable career development within the existing workforce. Based on current plans this could see an investment of £1million as the training is rolled out across the business.