“I am absolutely thrilled to receive such an honour,” said Robinson. “The UK ports sector has a critical role to play in international trade and in attracting inward investment to grow a stronger and more sustainable economy.”
In the last 12 years, Robinson presided over a £16.7m ($25.2m) expansion of the Teesport Container Terminal in 2011, as well as dedicated apprenticeship programmes, and a further £30m investment in various other projects, against the backdrop of what PD Ports described as a ‘difficult recession’ and the temporary loss of steelmaking on Teesside.
“The North of England is significant in this role and here on Teesside we have a number of world class businesses and highly skilled people doing a tremendous job. We need to continue building on this good work both regionally and nationally to provide a solid platform for a sustainable and progressive future.”
The award follows Robinson’s appointment as Ambassador for Business in the Community in 2012 by the Prince of Wales, for improving regional employment opportunities in maritime.
PD Ports runs facilities in Hartlepool, Billingham, Teesport, Howden, Hull, Keadby, Immingham, Scunthorpe, Felixstowe, the Thames, and the Isle of Wight.