PORT Taranaki chief executive Guy Roper is retiring at the end of September after being in the role since April 2015.
Mr Roper said it had been a privilege to oversee the operation of the company, which plays a key role in the regional and national supply chain and is a vital asset for the Taranaki and New Zealand economy.
“This is a personal decision, which I have signalled six months ahead of time to help provide a smooth transition to the incoming chief executive,” Mr Roper said.
“In the interim, there is plenty to do to prepare our three-year business plan and budget, while delivering a successful full-year outcome in a challenging second half.”
Port Taranaki Board of Directors chairman Richard Krogh thanked Mr Roper for his time at the company.
“Guy has made a significant contribution to the port and has steered the company through a period of change and uncertainty. The shipping and logistics sector has evolved at pace and Guy has ensured the company is in a strong position heading into the future,” Mr Krogh said.
“The board and I thank Guy for his efforts and successes over the past six years and we wish him well in his retirement.”
Mr Krogh said the recruitment process for Mr Roper’s successor had begun.
In its most recent half-year report, Port Taranaki recorded a net profit after tax of NZ$5.46 million, which was a 3% increase on the same period the previous year.
Over the six months to 30 December, the port’s total trade was 2.68 million tonnes, and 129 vessels visited during the period.
