Peel Ports Group, the UK’s second-largest port operator, has appointed Jonathan Rayner as Chief Commercial Officer as the company advances its long-term growth strategy. Rayner joins from London Luton Airport, where he served as CCO since 2020, and brings extensive experience from senior commercial and operational roles across major UK airports and infrastructure organisations.
In his new role, Rayner will join the Executive Board and lead the group’s full commercial strategy, aligning commercial activity with wider business objectives and driving growth across all markets.
The appointment follows the decision of Stephen Carr, Group Commercial Director, to step down at the end of November after 16 years with the company. Carr has been instrumental in major strategic developments, including the Liverpool2 container terminal, and will remain with the group part-time as Director of Public Affairs.
CEO Claudio Veritiero welcomed the appointment, stating that Rayner’s background in complex transport environments and commercial transformation will be “invaluable for the future of the organisation.” He also thanked Carr for his long-standing contribution and highlighted his continued role in shaping public affairs at national level.
Rayner said he is “honoured” to join Peel Ports at a time of strong momentum for the business, noting the “enormous opportunity ahead for the supply chain.” Carr added that he looks forward to championing the group’s economic contribution in his new position.
