Peter Ward steps down as chief executive of UKWA

Peter Ward is stepping down as CEO of the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) after six years at the helm. His successor will be named shortly, the association said this week.

Under Ward’s leadership UKWA widened its membership to retail and manufacturing logistics users, and introduced new benefits to membership. He also provided a voice for the industry at government and local authority level and helped shape government policy around Brexit.

Ward also fostered strong links with Transaid, helping to raise over £100,000, for the charity over the past six years, including £75,000 donated by members to mark the association’s 75th milestone.

UKWA said that membership has continued to grow under Ward’s tenure, particularly over the past 12 months, as the industry weathered the impact of the global pandemic and the impact of UK’s exit from the European Union.

Nicola Ridges-Jones, chair of the UKWA management board, said: “As UKWA CEO Peter has been a passionate advocate for our industry, raising the profile of the Association within the sector and well beyond. His strong industry track record and undoubted leadership skills, combined with extraordinary energy and drive, have ensured that he leaves UKWA a thriving and successful organisation, ready to lead members through the fresh challenges ahead.

"We wish him every success as he steps into semi-retirement to pursue personal interests.”

Commenting on his decision to step down, Ward said: “It has been my privilege to represent the warehousing and logistics sector as CEO of UKWA. I am proud to have been able to instigate change, drive improvement and help this great industry achieve the respect and recognition it deserves.”

He added: “As we emerge from lockdown and adjust to the changes brought by Brexit, the world has changed. Having steered members through such turbulent times, I am ready to hand over the reins to my successor, who I am confident will continue to support members in negotiating the challenges of the ‘new world’ and seizing the exciting opportunities that now lie ahead.

“In the meantime, I would like to express my thanks for the excellent support I’ve enjoyed from the UKWA management board, my hard-working executive team and, of course, the UKWA membership. I hope to stay in touch with many friends and industry colleagues; and from the side-lines will continue to watch my beloved logistics industry, contributing wherever I can add value.”