Keith Wilks has been announced as the new CEO of Southern Ports Authority, in a planned succession from current CEO, Steve Lewis, who is retiring.
Mr Wilks will take over on 01 May 2023. He has spent more than 27 years in the ports and maritime sectors.
He has been the Chief Operating Officer at Southern Ports Authority since January 2020 and has previously held senior roles at the Port of Newcastle and Svitzer.
Mr Wilks commented: “I am excited to be taking this next step and look forward to continuing the good work already underway to build the capability and capacity of our ports to facilitate trade, strengthen the State’s supply chains, and create new opportunities for Western Australian products”.
Southern Ports comprises the ports of Albany, Bunbury and Esperance, and they had a combined facilitated trade of more than 36 million tonnes in the 2022 financial year.
WA Ports Minister Rita Saffioti commented: “I congratulate Keith Wilks on his appointment as CEO of Southern Ports Authority. Mr Wilks brings valuable operational experience in leading complex port operations and proven strategic and leadership skills to the role. Southern Ports Authority has a vital role in gearing our State for trade and investment and I look forward to working closely with Mr Wilks to realise this potential”.
Ms Saffioti also thanked Steve Lewis for leading Southern Ports Authority for the past four years, and particularly for his achievements in building the capacity and capability of WA ports and the adoption of emerging technologies.
