Ernst Schulze Starts As DP World's UK CEO

Ernst Schulze has taken up the reigns as DP World’s UK Chief Executive Officer.

He takes over from Chris Lewis, who is retiring after a long and successful 36 years in the ports industry.

Mr. Schulze joins the global trade enabler’s UK operations, overseeing the Southampton and London Gateway container terminals, the Logistics Park at London Gateway and Community Network Services (CNS), which provides customs clearance and digital logistics services.

Mr. Schulze has moved from Ecuador where he has been heading up the development of DP World Posorja, the first deep-water port in the South American nation, which will sit adjacent to a 100 hectare logistics zone.

Prior to his role as CEO there, Mr. Schulze was CEO at Embraport in Santos, Brazil. He has also held senior port and logistics roles in the Philippines, France, at the Port of Felixstowe and in the Netherlands.

Rashid Abdulla, CEO, DP World Europe & Russia, said:

“I would like to welcome Ernst to the DP World Europe & Russia family – and indeed, introduce him to our customers, stakeholders and partners across the region.

“He brings - both to the wider Europe region, but more specifically to the UK – a wealth of experience within the logistics industry, amassed from a variety of leadership roles all over the world.

“Ernst assumes this important role with our UK businesses going from strength-to-strength. A series of exciting developments are being announced on the Logistics Park at London Gateway, there is continued growth and excellent service in the ports and an ever-present desire among the team to innovate and ensure that the UK continues to trade efficiently, reliably and via the most sustainable means with every corner of the globe.

“To that end, I would also like to wish Chris the very best in retirement! He has been an outstanding leader in our UK businesses for many years and his considered, customer-centric approach has been key to the success we have seen in recent years.”

Ernst Schulze, UK CEO, DP World, said:

“This is clearly a very exciting time to be taking up the helm of DP World’s UK portfolio. I’m really looking forward to meeting staff, customers and our trade enabling partners over the coming weeks and months – and continuing the work that contributes to facilitating trade between the UK and every continent, making it more sustainable and more efficient.”

Chris Lewis, the outgoing UK CEO, DP World, said:

“It has been a privilege to work alongside so many brilliant customers and colleagues over the years. I have had a great time and I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved! I wish Ernst and the whole of the DP World group every success over the coming years.”