The Board of Southern Ports has announced that Chief Executive Officer, Nicolas Fertin, has resigned after three years in the position to pursue new opportunities.
Mr Fertin has served in the role since February 2015 and led the complex task of transforming Albany, Bunbury and Esperance ports into a single, amalgamated business.
Board Chairman, Robert Cole, said Southern Ports had experienced strong year-on-year growth and diversification of trade across the business during this time, as well as a significant decline in operating costs per tonne.
“Nicolas led the changes required to combine the three businesses into one,” Mr Cole said.
“It has been a complex and demanding task, and his dedicated efforts resulted in Southern Ports achieving record results in FY17 in each of the three ports, as well as the business as a whole.
“The Board thanks Nicolas for his service and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.”
Mr Fertin thanked his Southern Ports co-workers for their efforts during a period of change.
“It has been a privilege to serve as CEO of Southern Ports and I am proud of the transformational changes that were achieved by all employees working together with the support of stakeholders, three communities and our port users,” Mr Fertin said.
“Having established the foundations reported in the government’s Post-Amalgamation Review last February, I have decided the time has come to hand over the leadership of Southern Ports to new management for the next chapter in Southern Ports’ history.
“I will assist the transition to a new CEO and, in particular, continue to collaborate with the state’s initiative to negotiate with potential buyers of Cliffs assets for the continuation of the Esperance iron ore trade.”
Alan Byers, General Manager Esperance Ports and Assets, will serve as acting CEO while the Board conducts a search process.
