AURIZON’S Samuel McSkimming has been appointed the new CEO of Pilbara Ports Authority.

Ports minister Rita Saffioti announced his appointment on 22 December.

Mr McSkimming has worked with rail freight operator Aurizon for more than a decade, most recently as general manager New South Wales and Southeast Queensland.

He is to take over from PPA’s current CEO Roger Johnston, whose term will expire on 30 June 2023.

Ports minister Rita Saffioti congratulated Mr McSkimming on his appointment.

“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,” Ms 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.”

Ms Saffioti also thanked Mr Johnston for guiding PPA over the past decade, particularly through the challenges of Covid-19.

“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.”