Port of Tyne CEO Appointed

Andrew Moffat has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Tyne with effect from 1st November 2008.

An economics graduate from Newcastle University and a native of the north east, Andrew Moffat started his career in 1978 as a trainee accountant with Northumbrian Water. He joined the Port as Finance and Commercial Director in November 2007 from 3 UK, a telecoms subsidiary of Hong Kong based multi-national conglomerate Hutchison Whampoa, where he was Chief Finance Officer. Prior to this Andrew worked for sister company 3 Italia based in Milan as Chief Finance Officer and before this he held a number of senior roles over a 7 year period within Orange, including, Orange UK Director of Strategy and Orange Group Financial Controller.

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, Chairman of the Port of Tyne expressed his delight in the appointment and says “Andrew is an astute strategist, since joining us a year ago he has become an invaluable member of the team. As Director of Strategy for Orange UK, his direction and support in the development of its business strategies resulted in the growth and success of the Orange Group. Experience like this is a vital commodity as we plan the next phase of development of the port.”

With five business areas covering conventional & bulk cargo, car terminals, cruise & ferries, logistics services and estates, the Port of Tyne has become recognised for its success as one of the UK's largest trust ports. The Port of Tyne was named Port Operator of the Year 2008 at the prestigious Lloyds List London Awards, in addition to winning the Institute of Transport Managements accolade of European Port of the Year 2008 for the second year in succession.

The business that Andrew Moffat now leads continues to have a major role in the economy of the north east region. Financial performance for 2007 shows an increase in total tonnage from 5.4 million to 6.0 million tonnes and turnover increased by 9% to £37 million. Projected 2008 turnover is c. £50 million.

With a strong track record both in strategy and financial management, Andrew Moffat has already brought a wealth of experience to what has been a key phase in the development of the Port's business areas. Describing the next stage as both challenging and exciting, Andrew says “there is no doubt that economically we are entering a period of intense global change which will certainly shape our direction in the short term. We have a good team and a collective goal; this is our strength and will ensure our continued success.”