Gavin Laybourne becomes Peel Ports Group’s first CTIO

Laybourne takes responsibility for the ongoing digital transformation of the Group’s port operations

Peel Ports Group has appointed Gavin Laybourne as its Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO), the first person to hold the role at the UK’s second-largest port operator.

Gavin will join the Group’s Executive team and lead all its technology and information-related activities. This includes IT, cyber security, data analytics, green technologies, and the ongoing automation and digital transformation of the Group’s operations.

He has more than 25 years of experience in technology leadership within global organisations: most recently he was Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer at Maersk APM Terminals, the world’s second-largest terminal operator.

Prior to this, he was Chief Information Officer at Marks and Spencer, following a long tenure at Shell Retail and Shell Downstream, including as Global Technology Director.

With his experience in managing business infrastructure across both digital and operational technology, Gavin will lead Peel Ports Group’s continued digital transformation and the evolution of its long-term technology plans.

Claudio Veritiero, Chief Executive Officer at Peel Ports Group, said:

“Gavin’s appointment marks another significant step in our innovation and technology strategies and he will play a critical role in the Groups ambitious growth plans.

His leadership will be central to future-proofing our business, ensuring that every investment we make today strengthens our role in tomorrow’s global supply chain and within the UK’s economy.

With over £1.5 billion invested in the past decade, and a further £1 billion planned over the next five years, we continue to build a port ecosystem that is not only more agile, through the use of technology and automation, but one that is also sustainable for generations to come.

Gavin brings not only industry and technical expertise, but also a vision on how technology can unlock further growth across every part of our operations and I am delighted to welcome him as a key member of our Executive team”

Gavin Laybourne, Chief Technology and Information Officer said:

"I am honoured to join Peel Ports Group at such an exciting time for the ports industry. Ports are not only gateways of trade but also hubs of innovation, and my priority will be to ensure our investments further strengthen supply chain efficiency and sustainability.

What drew me to Peel Ports Group is the enormous opportunity – and challenge – that’s ahead of us in the digital transformation of the Group’s port operations. There’s a huge role for technology to play in adding real value to the business’s growth objectives.

My guiding principles are simple: people first, safety always, and then technology, applied in ways that make a meaningful difference to the business and the communities we serve.

My focus will be on driving innovation through initiatives such as automating terminal processes, integrating AI and IoT for smarter cargo management, and strengthening cybersecurity.

By embracing these technologies, we can not only improve efficiency and service for our customers but also support the broader transition to greener and more sustainable trade."