Captain Allan Gray has been appointed as TasPorts’ interim chief executive, stepping into the role next week as the state-owned port authority searches for a permanent leader.
The appointment runs from March 16 through to October 2, with Gray bringing decades of international port experience to Tasmania’s key maritime infrastructure operator.
TasPorts chair Greg McCann said Gray’s background made him ideal for the transition period.
“Captain Gray has led major port organisations in Australia and internationally, including most recently as chief executive of Sentient Ports in Perth, and previously as president and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority in Canada,” McCann said.
Gray also spent more than 20 years across various commercial vessels before moving into senior leadership roles at Fremantle Ports.
“His track record in assisting ports and governments develop solutions to complex port and supply chain challenges makes him a highly suitable and capable candidate to lead TasPorts through this time of transition,” McCann said.
The appointment follows the departure of Anthony Donald, who will finish his role after almost a decade as CEO.
McCann praised Donald’s tenure, which saw significant investment in infrastructure projects across the state.
“Anthony has led TasPorts through a period of significant change and investment, strengthening the organisation’s focus on safety, sustainability and the delivery of major infrastructure projects across the state,” he said.
“TasPorts today is stronger, more mature and better positioned than it was a decade ago, and the opportunity that lies ahead is significant.”
TasPorts operates 12 ports across Tasmania, including the major facilities at Devonport and Burnie that handle the Spirit of Tasmania ferries and freight operations.
The organisation will continue its search for a permanent CEO while Gray leads day-to-day operations through the coming months.
