The Port of Tyne has a rich history, once famous for its coal exports. However, it has evolved to adapt to the changing global economy and the diverse needs of its customers. Today the Port of Tyne, one of UK’s most innovative and efficient deep-sea ports handling cargoes across five continents. Ideally positioned as one of the closest ports to serve the North Sea Offshore developments, having the capacity to become a major hub for the installation and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
Port of Tyne is capable of handling a wide variety of cargoes, from cars to containers, bulk goods, renewable energy, and offshore equipment. It stands as one of the UK’s major car exporters and one of the world’s leading handlers of wood pellets.
The Port of Tyne is organized into six distinct Business Areas:
Conventional and Bulk Cargoes, Car Terminals, Cruise and Ferry, Logistics, Estates and Offshore
Cargoes: Automotive, Break Bulk, Containers, Dry Bulk, Offshore, Liquid Bulk and Project Cargo.
The Conventional and Bulk Business Area has undergone significant infrastructure improvements, including major river dredging, enabling the main Riverside Quays to accommodate a remarkable 83% of the world’s largest cargo vessels.
The Logistics Business Area offers a comprehensive package, encompassing container handling, warehousing, and distribution services. These services handle a wide range of goods, from retail products to manufacturing parts, and even a substantial portion of the UK’s tea imports.
The Port of Tyne’s three car terminals were established to support the burgeoning automotive sector, particularly offering efficient logistics for Nissan, located in the nearby town of Washington. Additionally, a transhipment terminal handles imports and exports for manufacturers like VW.
The Estates business segment oversees a growing portfolio of commercial properties and land holdings with over 100 business tenants. It also presents property development opportunities.
In 2016, the Port of Tyne made a substantial contribution of £680 million to the regional economy of the North East, directly and indirectly supporting nearly 14,000 jobs. Beyond its economic impact, the Port has undergone a significant transformation. It has attained national quality standards for Investors in People, achieving Champion status. The Port also boasts internationally recognized standards for health, safety, and environmental practices. Moreover, it has introduced a profit-sharing scheme for all employees.
The Port of Tyne is committed to its responsibility to the community. It recently pledged to allocate 1% of its profits to a community action fund on an ongoing basis. Furthermore, the Port actively engages in the region and national business life, providing support to various community events, business ventures, and cultural institutions.
Remarkably, the Port of Tyne operates without shareholders or owners. Any surplus generated is reinvested in the Port for the benefit of its stakeholders. These stakeholders include all users of the port, its employees, and any individuals, organizations, or groups with an interest in the Port’s operations.
The Port recognizes its pivotal role in the economic, environmental, and regional identity of the North East. It is dedicated to creating a vibrant and sustainable Port of Tyne for the benefit of its stakeholders and the entire region. This commitment is upheld by operating in a commercially viable, socially supportive, and environmentally sustainable manner.
MISSION:
The Port’s mission is to create a vibrant and sustainable Port of Tyne contributing to the growth of the economy and to hand on the Port in a better condition to future generations.
VISION:
The Port’s vision: is to be the UK’s safest, most progressive customer-focused and environmentally sustainable port, and a great place to work.
VALUES:
The Port’s values reflect the culture of the company and are the guiding principles for how it does business, they are to be Open, Excellent, Respectful and Responsible.
• Open: We are transparent and clear in communication we listen and learn
• Excellent: We take pride in delivering top quality service to the highest professional standards and continuously look for ways to improve
• Respectful: We treat people fairly, with dignity, consideration and integrity
• Responsible: We are all accountable we are trusted and empowered
The Port of Tyne transitioned into a trust port through an Act of Parliament in 1968. It operates without shareholders or owners and is governed by an independent board of executive directors, along with seven non-executive directors whose appointments are confirmed by the Secretary of State for Transport.
This financially independent Port does not receive government funding, operates on a commercial basis, and reinvests all profits back into the Port, benefiting customers, employees, businesses, government, and the community.
The Port’s organizational structure includes five business areas and six support areas, crucial for its continued development and long-term strategic success:
Business Development: The Commercial Team identifies new business opportunities and strategies to boost trade growth.
Engineering including Environment, Health & Safety: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering teams plan and maintain Port facilities and infrastructure. The Environment, Health & Safety team ensures sustainable business operations with a minimal impact on the environment while maintaining safe working practices.
Finance, Information Technology & Legal Services: The Finance team manages financial reporting, accounting, and procurement. The Information Technology team oversees effective information systems and applications. Legal Services ensures financial and legal compliance and liaises with external regulators and advisers.
Human Resources & Facilities: The Human Resources team handles employment policies, management development, recruitment, performance development, and employee relations. The Facilities team provides resources and support to all Port areas.
Marketing & Communications: The Marketing team is responsible for press and media planning and develops promotional strategies for all five business areas, seeking to expand new and existing markets.
Marine Services including Port Security: Marine Services oversees the tidal reaches of the Tyne, ensuring navigation safety. The Marine team manages pilots, boat crews, and operates a debris collection vessel. The Security team enforces stringent security across all operational areas of the Port.
In summary, the Port of Tyne is a versatile and adaptive hub that has evolved to meet the demands of a changing global economy. Committed to sustainability, economic growth, and community engagement, it stands as a vital asset to the region and the nation.