Samuel McSkimming has been announced as the new chief executive officer of the Pilbara Ports Authority, taking over from Roger Johnston after his term expires on 30 June.
McSkimming is currently the general manager of Aurizon, Australia’s largest rail freight operator, looking after the New South Wales and Southeast Queensland divisions.
WA Ports Minister Rita Saffioti congratulated McSkimming on his appointment, noting that he brings significant experience to the role with more than a decade at Aurizon.
“The Pilbara Ports Authority play an integral role to the state, national and global economies and Mr McSkimming brings considerable experience to the role, with more than a decade at Aurizon,” Minister Saffioti said.
“There is a significant amount of work to be delivered at our Pilbara ports, as we look to expand and diversify our exports, and I look forward to working closely with Mr McSkimming as we deliver a number of important projects.”
Minister Saffioti also thanked Roger Johnston for guiding the Pilbara Ports Authority for the past 10 years, particularly through the challenges of the COVID pandemic.
“Roger’s leadership and strategic thinking has been integral to the growth of our Pilbara ports, and I wish him all the best for the future.”
Pilbara Ports Authority is the world’s largest bulk export port authority. It was established on 1 July 2014, consolidating seven of WA’s eight port authorities into four new regional port authorities.
Pilbara Ports Authority encompasses the Port of Ashburton, the Port of Dampier, the Port of Port Hedland and the Port of Varanus Island.
Pilbara Ports Authority also oversees the operation of greenfield ports, including Anketell, Balla Balla, Cape Preston East, Cape Preston West and Urala.