ABP Humber welcomes Steven Clapperton as Head of Marine

Steven Clapperton, Head of Marine in the Humber pictured at the Port of Immingham © ABP

STEVEN joins ABP, the leading ports group, from the Port of London Authority (PLA) where for the last three years he has been in the role of Director of Marine Operations. He arrives in the Humber as an experienced maritime industry leader with over 30 years’ experience in the sector to lead the Marine team which comprises over 300 people and includes the Humber Marine Pilots.

Prior to the Port of London Authority, Steven worked at the Port of Tyne, where he was Maritime Director and Harbour Master. Before this, he had an extensive and varied seagoing career, working as a harbour pilot, and spent time working in marine consultancy, including a period on secondment to an international oil major. 

Simon Bird, Regional Director, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Steven to the Humber. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been a pilot and a Master Mariner; and with his strong background in port management, it’s great to appoint him in the Humber, the UK’s busiest port complex.  

“His leadership and knowledge in such an important role are vital for overseeing the shipping movements in what is the UK’s busiest trading estuary with 17% of the seaborne trade coming through our ports. I want to thank Fred Firman who has covered the role since the former Head of Marine, Paul Bristowe was appointed as Chief of Staff (Group).” 

Steven Clapperton said: "I am excited to be to joining ABP as Head of Marine Humber, as we embark on the delivery of our five-year strategic plan. I’m particularly focused on safety-led cultures and working collaboratively to make the right decisions in relation to our values. 

“I’m looking forward to meeting our customers and stakeholders, collaborating with new colleagues, and working together to deliver safe, efficient, and cost-effective marine operations, contributing to our twin missions of Keeping Britain Trading and Enabling the Energy Transition.” 

Steven has held several voluntary roles including being a Trustee of the Tyne Rivers Trust and is a member of the board of the Guild of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST). He is a Master Mariner and Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute and is a passionate advocate for seafarers’ welfare and