Tees Business Tees Business Issue 21 | Page 82

Passionate - PD Ports' estates surveying apprentice Jacob Moat. CATCH THE How PD Ports can offer a wide range of logistics careers NEXT WAVE Think you know what careers the maritime sector can offer? Think again. Tees Business talks to those whose ship came in when they joined PD Ports. A s one of the Tees Valley’s leading employers and one of the UK’s major port groups, PD Ports is passionate about providing quality experiences and opportunities for the next generation. CEO Frans Calje is a firm believer that at the heart of the business is its people and that while technology has its part to play in the evolution of the maritime industry, it is people who will create the Studying - PD Ports’ harbour lasting legacy for the sector. police constable Holly Fielding. The region is rich with passionate, skilled and innovative people and PD Ports works closely with local educational institutions to retaining talent within the region and demonstrates raise awareness of opportunities and develop the best talent for the future. its commitments to raising aspirations through its co-founded charity the High Tide Foundation, The “The Tees Valley has a rich heritage of skilled labour Tees Valley Logistics Academy and through working and there is a noticeable appetite to reinvigorate collaboratively with Teesside University to develop industry,” says Frans. “In our own business, we have invested heavily in bespoke apprenticeships programmes. There are currently more than 50 apprentices our workforce as we believe skilled people who are employed within PD Ports nationwide, studying across empowered to make decisions and challenge the norm all locations and functions including finance, engineering, will ensure future success.” PD Ports plays an integral role in attracting and property, IT, construction and accountancy. 82 | Tees Business