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PD Ports has appointed Paul Foreman as its new Chief Executive Officer, with the current Chief Operating Officer set to succeed Frans Calje on 1 September following a competitive recruitment process.
The leadership change marks the end of nearly a decade of Calje’s tenure as CEO and more than 18 years with the business. It also comes as the UK port operator prepares to expand its operations, invest in infrastructure, and respond to changing customer demands across the logistics and industrial sectors.
The company said Foreman will lead the next phase of its strategy, which focuses on accelerating growth, improving customer services, and continuing investment across its network.
Leadership transition follows decade under Frans Calje
Calje said when he first became CEO he believed a ten year period would provide the right balance between stability and the opportunity for fresh leadership.
Reflecting on his time at the company, he said the business is now operating from a stronger position than when he took over. He pointed to improvements in safety, financial stability, and operational performance as key achievements during his leadership.
Calje also said the business is well positioned for the future and that a change in leadership would help guide the next stage of development.
His successor, Foreman, acknowledged the work completed during the past decade, noting that PD Ports had transformed its container and bulk operations while strengthening safety standards and improving its financial position.
He said he was honoured to take on the role and thanked Calje for his support during the transition.
Focus remains on growth and investment
The appointment comes as PD Ports continues to invest across its operations. In recent months the company announced a £5.4 million investment in new crane equipment at Teesport to strengthen bulk cargo handling capacity.
The business said its long term strategy remains centred on expanding services while adapting to changing industrial and technological requirements.
Teesport remains one of the company’s most important assets. As the largest port in northeast England, it handles a broad mix of cargoes supporting manufacturers, exporters, importers, and logistics providers throughout the region.
PD Ports also serves as the Statutory Harbour Authority for the River Tees, maintaining safe navigation while supporting commercial activity along one of the UK’s established industrial waterways.
According to the company, its operations contribute around £1.4 billion each year to the Teesside economy. It supports approximately 22,000 jobs across the wider supply chain while directly employing more than 1,400 people at 11 sites across the United Kingdom.
Shareholders back internal appointment
Brookfield Operating Partner Becky Lumlock said the appointment follows a competitive recruitment process and reflects confidence in Foreman’s experience and long term involvement in shaping the company’s strategy.
She thanked Calje for his leadership over the past decade, stating that the business had delivered significant growth during his tenure.
Lumlock said Foreman’s strategic approach and involvement in long term planning positioned him well to lead the company through its next phase of development.
Foreman said the role carries particular significance because of PD Ports’ position within the regional economy. He described the company as an important driver of employment, trade, and investment across Teesside and said he looks forward to leading the business as it continues to evolve.
Board structure also changes in September
Alongside the appointment of a new CEO, PD Ports confirmed changes to its board structure.
Current Executive Chairman Jerry Hopkinson will become Non Executive Chairman from 1 September. While stepping away from day to day executive responsibilities, he will continue to advise the company on strategic matters and will chair the PD Ports Board in his capacity as a Brookfield Operating Partner.
Hopkinson said his long association with the business has given him a clear understanding of its history, culture, and role within the regional economy.
He added that the company’s infrastructure together with the experience of its workforce provides a strong platform for future growth under Foreman’s leadership.
The leadership changes complete a planned transition for one of the United Kingdom’s largest port and logistics operators as it prepares for its next phase of operational and commercial development.
