PPA appoints Geatches as chair

Former Perth Airport chief executive Brad Geatches has been appointed as the chair of the Pilbara Ports Authority.

Mr Geatches will replace Ken Pettit as the chair of the world’s largest bulk export port authority.

He served as chief executive officer at the Cairns Port Authority from 2002 to 2007, before becoming chief executive officer at Perth Airport from 2007 to 2016.

Mr Geatches was succeeded at Perth Airport by Kevin Brown.

He has also worked as chief executive officer at coal miner Powercoal.

Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan said about $228 million of exports went through the ports of Port Hedland, Dampier and Ashburton every day.

“It is critical that we continue to have strong leadership at the (Pilbara) Ports Authority,” she said.

"Brad has worked in ports, mining and aviation: he brings a wealth of commercial experience to the table, and will ensure the Pilbara ports continue to deliver for our resources sectors and the state.

"I'd like to thank Ken Pettit for his service as chairperson of the Pilbara Ports Authority, in particular for overseeing the amalgamation of the region's port authorities."