The Port of Tyne announced the appointment of Matt Beeton as chief executive officer with effect from January 7.

Beeton joins the port from APT Business Solutions, a transport consultancy which has provided advice and support to organisations including Transport for the North and Transport for Greater Manchester.

In June, Port of Tyne said it returned to business growth in 2017 — two years after the end of imports of coal — and was enjoying further improvements in its financial performance in 2018.

It said in June that CEO Andrew Moffat would be stepping down at the end of the year after 10 years at the helm, during which time the port has seen record growth and investment.

The port has been transformed under Moffat’s leadership with investments of more than £200 million in infrastructure, equipment and people to become one of the UK’s most innovative deep-sea ports.

New CEO Beeton’s early career began with a graduate programme at Rolls Royce Aerospace.

“He brings a breadth of experience in the transport industry with a career spanning over 20 years within the road, rail and aerospace industries, having held director positions at Rolls Royce, Bombardier, Serco plc, Northern Rail and National Express,” said Port of Tyne.

Lucy Armstrong, Port of Tyne Chair, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Matt on board.

“The UK’s ports face major challenges and opportunities.

“They remain vital to the UK economy and central to global trading.

“Matt’s background and experience will be invaluable in the future development of the Port, bringing a fresh perspective to the business.”

Beeton said: “I am delighted to be joining the Port and for the opportunity to work with the team in growing the business and delivering on the vision to double the value by 2022.

“The Port of Tyne is one of North East England’s largest gateways and an important driver of regional investment and sustainability.

“I’m looking forward to working with stakeholders to develop strategic partnerships, skills, and innovation.”