The position has been created to drive commercial opportunities focussed on the company’s network of terminals and port-centric logistics facilities.
Most recently Head of Commercial for Maasvlakte 2 container terminal in Rotterdam, Jouke has overall responsibility for Peel Ports’ container businesses in Liverpool, Dublin and the Manchester Ship Canal. He took up his position in May.
Peel Ports’ container terminals handled over 980,000 TEU in 2015, representing over 9% of the UK and Irish market. The opening of Liverpool2 will see the annual throughput at the Port of Liverpool more than double and by 2025 it is anticipated that Liverpool’s share of the UK container market will be between 15-20%.
Mark Whitworth, Chief Executive Officer at Peel Ports, said: “We’re very pleased to have secured an individual of Jouke’s calibre to lead the next phase in the future of our container business. His experience, especially that at Maasvlakte 2, will be critical in achieving our ambitious financial and performance targets. Although Liverpool2 is obviously our flagship terminal, our overall presence around the Irish Sea is the real strength, offering cargo owners an unrivalled range of options for moving goods to and from the heart of the UK and Irish markets.”
Jouke Schaap, Peel Ports’ new Container Director said: “Peel Ports is shaking up the UK container industry through its investment in Liverpool2 and the Cargo200 campaign. So, it’s a very exciting time to join the company, especially as I will be based in one of the world’s great maritime cities. I am looking forward to using my commercial experience as Peel Ports looks to maximise the potential of its unique network of container facilities.”
Jouke began his career as a consultant with Deloitte, gaining an MBA during his time there. He then joined the Port of Rotterdam, initially as Business Development Manager Logistics, before going on to head up its breakbulk division for six years. Following this, he moved to APM Terminals’ commercial team for Maasvlakte 2.
Previously, Peel Ports’ container business was led by David Huck, who has recently been promoted to Deputy Chief Operating Officer.
Peel Ports has also filled 22 new positions at the Liverpool2 container terminal, with all the successful recruits coming from within a 15 mile radius of the port. The majority of the posts are highly skilled positions within the operations control room, with other roles including operations analysts, operational co-ordinators and a yard strategy manager. The new intake also includes four women.
Colin Darroch, Head of Container Terminal Operations said: “It must be an exceptionally rare occurrence to have an entire intake selected from so close to the port. While the four women we recruited were all appointed on merit, we’re especially pleased to welcome them, as it sends a positive message about the prospects for females in the maritime industry.”