Peter Ward to step down as CEO of UK Warehousing Association

Peter Ward, CEO of UK Warehousing Association (UKWA), has announced his intention to step down after six years at the helm of the influential trade organisation.

Ward joined the Association in 2015 having held a series of industry roles at director level with prominent companies within the sector. UKWA said he had “transformed the fortunes of the association”, with UKWA membership continuing “to grow strongly – even over the last twelve months, as the global pandemic and the impact of UK’s exit from the European union   created arguably the most challenging period since the Association’s inception during the Second World War”.

Paying tribute to his contribution, chair of the UKWA management board Nicola Ridges-Jones 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.”

UKWA said Ward had “provided a ‘voice’ for the industry both at government and local authority level, ensuring the concerns and issues facing members and the wider logistics community have been recognised, understood, and acted upon. On his watch, UKWA has helped shape Government policy around the departure of the UK from the European union   and has guided members through the complexities of planned changes.”

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.

“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.”

His successor will be named shortly, UKWA said.