Marine terminal operator Ports America appointed Matthew Leech as CEO and president to succeed Mark Montgomery, who will retire, but continue to support the company in an advisory role.
Leech’s appointment is effective November 2022.
With more than 25 years of experience in the maritime industry, Leech has held CEO and managing director roles for the Americas at DP World, a provider of end-to-end supply chain logistics. Prior to DP World’s acquisition of CSX World Terminals in 2005, Leech oversaw key expansion initiatives for CSX World Terminals in his role as vice president, operations and development.
In September 2021, Ports America, with operations in more than 33 ports and 70 locations, partnered with longtime minority shareholder Canada Pension Plan Investment Board to support the company’s long-term growth objectives.
“Ports America is poised for growth, and Matt is the right leader to take this exceptional business forward,” Montgomery stated. “He has a deep understanding of Ports America and shares the value-driven focus that differentiates our organization. Under Matt’s leadership, I am confident that Ports America will continue to provide best-in-class service and solutions for the benefit of our customers and cargo owners.”
“I am honored to be named as the next CEO of Ports America,” Leech said. “Ports America is a high-performing organization that values its longstanding relationships with its customers. I look forward to working with leadership and the entire team to continue driving strong performance, delivering on Ports America’s commitments and enhancing its already strong position in the industry.”
Leech will work closely with Andrew Clarke, who assumed the position of chairman of the Ports America board of directors earlier this year. Clarke is a leader in the logistics and maritime space, having held numerous roles as an executive, adviser and board member within the industry. In addition to being the chairman of Ports America’s board, Clarke currently serves on boards for Direct ChassisLink and Rock-it Cargo USA LLC.
“We are pleased Matt will lead Ports America forward and build on the company’s momentum as it enters its next chapter of growth and success,” Clarke stated. “Matt brings strong industry experience and will be an outstanding addition to the team as we deliver on our mission to provide the highest quality operations for our customers. We also thank Mark for his years of service and leadership during a period of unprecedented growth for the company.”
