Mersey Maritime, a regional cluster organisation for the Liverpool City Region and North West of England maritime sector, has announced the appointment of Ruth Wood as their Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1st July 2023.

Ruth Wood will be stepping-up to the role following the departure of current CEO, Chris Shirling-Rooke who will be leaving Mersey Maritime to take up the position of Chief Executive of Maritime UK.

With over 15 years’ experience working within the maritime industry, Ruth's career has also included 8 years at one of the UK’s largest port groups, the Peel Ports Group.

Over the past 5 years at Mersey Maritime, Ruth has achieved significant milestones and has helped strengthen the organisations position as a leading force within the maritime industry both locally and nationally.

John Hulmes, Chair of Mersey Maritime commented, “Whilst both the Mersey Maritime Board and I are sad to see Chris leave, we are equally delighted that Chris has been given this opportunity to further his career. The post of Chief Executive with Maritime UK is a challenging and exciting position and puts Chris at the very heart of the UK’s maritime industry. We wish him all the best in his new position which he will take up in the early summer.”

John added, “The Mersey Maritime Board unanimously decided to appoint Ruth Wood as the new acting Chief Executive and she will take up this position on July 1st. Ruth’s extensive experience, combined with her passion for the maritime sector, positions her as a key leader within the maritime community".

He added "Her long-standing dedication to the industry enables her to navigate the evolving challenges and drive innovation within Mersey Maritime. Ruth has the full support of the Board and I am sure this will be replicated by Members. Ruth will be ably supported by the rest of the team at Mersey Maritime who will continue to deliver an exciting and relevant programme of events including the nationally acclaimed Mersey Maritime Industry Awards dinner scheduled for 2nd November.”

Ruth Wood commented, “I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead Mersey Maritime during this exciting and transformative time, and look forward to continuing our work to drive growth, jobs, innovation and collaboration across our North West maritime sector – creating a positive impact for our coastal communities.”