How do you lead a complex operational hub that is both a national asset and a local neighbour? Doug Bannister, CEO of the Port of Dover, shares how a clear purpose, long-term vision, and relentless execution are helping Europe’s busiest ferry port deliver for trade, travel, and tourism—while building a greener and more connected future. At Dover, he leads an organisation that facilitates £144 billion of trade annually, handles around one-third of UK-EU commerce, and keeps ships, vehicles, and people moving with industry-leading efficiency.
In this episode, Doug discusses the Port’s evolving strategy and its purpose of ‘Empower Exchange,’ the importance of looking beyond short-term metrics to make bold, ecosystem-wide decisions, and why trust and transparency are essential in an organisation that operates in full public view. He also explores how the Port is delivering on its ambitious Sustainability Agenda 2025—including its goal to become the UK’s first high-volume green shipping corridor—and balancing commercial growth with minimising impact on local communities.
Reflecting on his own approach, Doug shares why building trust, acting proactively, and maintaining high standards for safety, security, and sustainability have been crucial to navigating a period of major transformation.
Supported by Norman Broadbent
Doug Bannister