Forth Ports makes board changes

Paul Dale will take up the role of chief operating officer, expanding his reach from his current role of asset and site director at the Port of Tilbury whilst chief commercial and financial officer, Carole Cran, will be stepping down.

Paul Dale joined Forth Ports in 1989 as a 19-year-old marine operative. In addition to his existing responsibilities at the Port of Tilbury, he will lead the transformation of the group’s infrastructure and technology, overseeing the Marine, Engineering and Safety functions.

“Paul Dale is a very experienced ports professional and has already been instrumental in our growth and success at Tilbury,” said Stuart Wallace, chief executive of Forth Ports.

“I am confident that, as we enter this next phase in Forth Ports’ development, he will prove to be an even stronger member of the group’s executive team, helping us to demonstrate strength of character and deliver excellence across the business.”

Cran joined Forth Ports as chief financial officer in 2017 and will leave in November. Until her replacement is appointed, the group’s finance and IT functions will be overseen by Matt McCreath, director of Finance, and commercial activity will be led by Forth Ports’ commercial and legal teams.

“I want to express my deep gratitude to Carole for her exceptional contributions during her time at Forth Ports and wish her every success as she embarks on the next chapter in her very successful career,” said Wallace.

“Her leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in our success during her time here. She has encouraged us all to think differently and contributed significantly to the culture of the organisation. Carole will be greatly missed by everyone here.”