New leader “marks a new beginning” for ports

Southern Ports is set to get a new leader next week.

Steve Lewis will join Southern Ports on January 14, and has 15 years’ experience as a port chief executive.

He most recently worked as interim chief executive at Geraldton’s Mid West Ports Authority, and has led Dampier Port Authority and North Queensland Bulk Ports.

As Southern Ports chief executive he will be responsible for ports in Albany, Bunbury and Esperance with a combined annual trade exceeding 33 million tonnes.

Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan said Mr Lewis’ appointment “marks a new beginning for Southern Ports after what has been a difficult period for the organisation”.

In 2018 Southern Ports’ reputation was tarnished by allegations of a toxic culture and workplace bullying, with investigators receiving 24 complaints.

“Steve Lewis is one of Australia’s most experienced port chief executives with strong experience leading large complex ports and a proven track record in building relationships with port users,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“He was instrumental in growing (Dampier Port Authority’s) base turnover from $3.5 million in 2003 to $86.4 million in June 2014.”