Most people underestimate the sheer size of the Port of London, the UK’s biggest and fastest-growing port. Its operations cover 95 miles of the River Thames from the North Sea to Teddington Lock. Thames Vision 2050 sets out the port’s path to net zero emissions, and includes ambitious economic, environmental and recreational goals for the tidal Thames.
In this episode of The Purposeful Strategist we talk to Robin Mortimer, CEO of the Port of London Authority, about how this impressive vision supports the PLA’s purpose, and how the authority plans to deliver it.
The PLA is responsible for promoting the safe and sustainable use of the tidal River Thames. Home to the UK’s biggest port and most diverse inland waterway, the Thames contributes over £6 billion annually to the UK economy and is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Robin joined the Port of London Authority (PLA) as Chief Executive on 31 March 2014. Prior to joining the PLA, Robin had 20 years experience in the UK civil service working on transport, environment, infrastructure and overseas development. He was Private Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister and three Secretaries of State for Environment and Transport. He was the lead author of the UK Climate Change Act, which became law in 2007 and as a Director in Defra led the Government’s Adapting to Climate Change programme, oversaw the creation of the Canal & River Trust and directed policy on farming and the environment.
Robin became Chair of Maritime UK in January 2023 and chairs Estuary Services Ltd. He is a Board Member of the UK Major Ports Group, the Thames Skills Academy, the Thames Freeport and the Thames Estuary Growth Board, a Non Executive Director at Red One Ltd and a Younger Brother at Trinity House.
Robin Mortimer