ABP strengthens East Anglia commercial team

Associated British Ports (ABP) has strengthened its commercial team in East Anglia with three appointments aimed at supporting customers, attracting investment and unlocking new opportunities across the region.

John Grace has joined ABP as lead commercial manager for East Anglia, bringing extensive experience in short-sea shipping, multimodal logistics and commercial property. He previously held senior commercial positions at CLdN Cargo, Freightliner Group and Samskip.

Tom Duit, operations manager at the Port of Lowestoft, has expanded his role to include commercial responsibilities, while Simon Priddle has been appointed assistant commercial manager after successfully completing ABP’s Graduate Scheme.

The strengthened team will support ABP’s ports in Ipswich, Lowestoft and King’s Lynn, working with customers across sectors including offshore wind, renewable energy, agribulk, construction, manufacturing, project cargo and logistics.

Lex Hanham, head of commercial (Wales and Short Sea Ports) at ABP, said: “East Anglia is one of the most exciting regions in the UK for investment, trade and energy.”

He added: “The appointments of John, Tom and Simon strengthen our ability to support customers and pursue new opportunities across the region.”

Paul Ager, divisional port manager for East Anglia at ABP, said the appointments reflected a long-term commitment to the region.

“As ABP’s investment continues across the region, it is vital that we have the right people in place to support our customers and maximise the opportunities ahead,” he said.

The appointments come as ABP continues to invest in East Anglia. At Lowestoft, its £35 million Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility supports offshore energy operations in the southern North Sea.

The region’s ports are also positioned to support major infrastructure projects, including Sizewell C, through port-centric logistics, storage and marine services.