James Leeson

James Leeson currently serves as Managing Director at CMA CGM, leading a team of over 100 maritime professionals across Southern Africa to enhance brand awareness and drive employee engagement. With a robust background in maritime operations, James has held key positions within CMA CGM, including UK Chief Operating Officer and interim UK Chief Executive Officer, overseeing significant teams and ensuring efficient cargo handling. Prior experience includes leadership roles at DP World, where commercial responsibilities spanned major UK ports, and at Associated British Ports, managing commercial activities for the UK's largest port complex. James's extensive career in the shipping industry began at P&O Nedlloyd and Maersk Line, complemented by a B.A. (Hons) in Economics and French from the University of Bradford.