Maritime sector executive Keith Wilks has been appointed CEO of Western Australia’s Southern Ports Authority.

The Government Trading Enterprise is responsible for the management of the ports of Albany, Bunbury and Esperance, which recorded a combined facilitated trade of more than 36 million tonnes in the 2022 financial year.

Mr Wilks brings with him more than 27 years of experience in the ports and maritime sector.

He was previously COO at Southern Ports and before that held senior roles at the Port of Newcastle and global towage operator Svitzer.

Ports minister Rita Saffioti congratulated Mr Wilks on his appointment.

She said in his role he would steer the authority through a period of sustained growth, including a $59 million asset renewal program and continued adoption of emerging technologies.

“Mr Wilks’ considerable expertise positions him well to lead Southern Ports Authority during this period of sustained growth,” she said in a statement.

“Southern Ports Authority has a vital role in gearing our State for trade and investment and I look forward to working closely with Mr Wilks to realise this potential.

Mr Wilks takes over from retiring CEO Steve Lewis on May 1.