Terrence Brooks appointed SAJ general manager

THE SHIPPING Association of Jamaica (SAJ) has appointed Terrence Brooks as its new general manager, effective today, a decision widely endorsed by industry leaders who recognise his extensive experience and leadership in the maritime sector. Brooks, who has dedicated nearly three decades to the SAJ, steps into the role at a crucial time as the association continues to develop in response to industry shifts.

His appointment follows the departure of Trevor Riley, who led the SAJ for over two decades and played an integral role in diversifying the organisation’s services. Riley will now focus fully on his role as chief executive officer of the SAJE Group and its subsidiaries, a member-owned investment entity he has managed alongside his SAJ responsibilities for several years.

Bertrand Smith, director general of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, noted the importance of Brooks’ leadership in countering emerging challenges. “Mr Brooks brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of Jamaica’s maritime sector, having served in several capacities at the SAJ, the last being as the deputy general manager. He has a strong track record in supporting the mandate of the SAJ to develop the Jamaica’s shipping sector. “

Smith continued, “We want to use this opportunity to thank his predecessor, Trevor Riley, who played a significant role in successfully guiding the SAJ through challenging periods and enabling it to diversify into new areas.”

He added, “The appointment of Mr Brooks as general manager comes at a time when Jamaica’s maritime and logistics sector has largely rebounded from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic but will be impacted in the foreseeable future by the policies of our major trading partners, decarbonisation, digitalisation and geopolitical events which continue to disrupt the global supply chain.

“All of these events will have an adverse impact on the maritime sector in Jamaica, which underpins the Jamaican economy, but will also provide opportunities for the decarbonisation of our shipping industry and improvement in the competitiveness of our growing maritime cluster,” Smith said.

Metry Seaga, president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, highlighted Brooks’ suitability for the position, noting his appointment “marks a significant transition for the organisation and the broader shipping sector. Given his extensive tenure within the SAJ and deep understanding of the industry’s evolving landscape, his leadership is poised to bring both continuity and fresh strategic direction to the association.

INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

“His expertise in operational management, stakeholder engagement, and policy advocacy will be invaluable in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As Jamaica’s shipping industry continues to play a pivotal role in national and regional trade, I anticipate that Mr Brooks will prioritise strengthening industry resilience, fostering innovation, and enhancing collaborative partnerships to ensure sustainable growth,” Seaga said.

Brooks’ journey with the SAJ began in 1995 as a summer worker. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, with his tenure marked by initiatives that have strengthened port worker protections, improved industrial relations, and reinforced the SAJ’s role in workforce development. He was also instrumental in expanding the SAJ’s security initiatives, leading the growth of the Canine Detection Unit, which plays a critical role in maintaining Jamaica’s reputation as a secure transshipment hub.

Dr Frances Yeo, CEO of ADVANTUM, said Brooks’ leadership style is a defining factor of his success. “His commitment to the organisation has been evident in how well he has managed his expanding portfolio over the years. He demonstrated keen concern for workers and their welfare, not losing sight of how important people are in attaining operational efficiency. This appointment is also an achievement for his predecessor, Trevor Riley, who identified Mr Brook’s potential and, for years, mentored him and groomed Mr Brooks for the post.”

As he assumes his new position, Brooks acknowledged the significance of the moment and the responsibility it brings. “It is an honour to be entrusted with leading the association with its rich history and sterling contribution to Jamaica’s maritime landscape for over 85 years,” he said. “I look forward to working closely with our members, partners, and stakeholders as we continue to evolve, innovate, and contribute to the sustainable growth of our shipping and logistics industry.”

His vision aligns with that of industry leaders like Mark Williams, CEO of Kingston Wharves Limited, who welcomed Brooks’ appointment. “We look forward to the continued positive impact of the SAJ on the region’s shipping industry,” Williams said.

The SAJ has undergone significant transformation in recent years, including its strategic decision to cease labour supply operations for the Port of Kingston, a service it had provided since 1939. This shift was driven by changing industry dynamics, as port operators increasingly moved toward in-house staffing solutions. Recognising these trends, the SAJ embarked on a long-term transformation process to diversify its services and align with the evolving needs of the shipping industry.