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David Huck to lead Peel Ports Group

[ October 19, 2026   //   ]

Peel Ports Group has appointed current chief operating officer, David Huck, as its new group chief executive, following the announcement on 12 October that current chief executive Claudio Veritiero to be succeeded by Mark Whitworth on an interim basis.

David Huck brings 16 years of experience across leadership roles within the business, including almost a decade on the executive team including chief operating officer of Peel Ports Group and chairman of the Port of Liverpool and Manchester Port Security Authority.

In that role, he led the Group’s ports and marine operations across the UK and Ireland, overseeing six ports and Statutory Harbour Authorities, 24 terminals and a workforce of more than 2,000 employees and third-party logistics personnel.

Prior to Peel Ports Group, he spent six years with Hutchison Ports UK, rising to deputy head of container terminal operations before that spent a decade in vehicle manufacturing.

As chief executive, his priorities will include continuing Peel Ports Group’s role as a safety-leading port operator, accelerating cargo volume growth and supporting jobs, investment and long-term prosperity.

He will also take leadership of the delivery of the Group’s pipeline of infrastructure and technology investments,.

Mark Whitworth, said: “David is a highly respected figure in the business with extensive operational, commercial and strategic leadership experience. He has been integral to the company’s success for 16 years, championing projects to transform our ports into the most efficient and automated network of terminals in the UK. As a member of our executive team since 2017, he has helped to create the business plan he will now be responsible for delivering, and there is no one more qualified to lead Peel Ports Group on the next stage of its growth journey.”

David Huck added: “I am proud to succeed Claudio, who has led Peel Ports Group through a period of significant growth, investment and transformation during his five-year tenure. As chief operating officer, I have worked closely alongside him to deliver strong financial and operational performance in a challenging market. I am privileged to work alongside some of the most talented and dedicated professionals in the industry. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to leading the business through its next phase of growth and achievement.”

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