David D’Annunzio joins DP World to lead automotive logistics

Furthering his work, D’Annunzio will oversee the strategic development of DP World’s automotive business.

“Over the next few months, David and Bill will collaborate closely to ensure a smooth transition,” said a spokesperson for the DP World. “David will be tasked with crafting strategies and leading customer-facing teams to expand our capabilities and expand our presence across the automotive sector.”

The company is repositioning itself as a supplier of end-to-end logistics services for the automotive sector, rather than exclusively a leader in port operations, and it is targeting inbound and service parts logistics, as well as building on its established services in finished vehicle logistics. The bulk of DP World’s automotive business lies in Europe and North America and the company has made a number of acquisitions in recent years to grow its automotive capabilities. 

D’Annunzio brings more than 20 years’ experience across the automotive logistics sector to DP World, covering sales, operations and general management. He was most recently managing director at consulting firm KRE Partners specialising in the automotive and logistics industries. Prior to that he held roles in business development at Neovia Logistics. D’Annunzio also served as chief operating officer at Syncreon, which DP World took over in 2021.

“David’s extensive experience in supply chain management and his commitment to continuous growth are essential as he leads the global development of our automotive business,” said Beat Simon, group chief commercial officer for logistics at DP World. “His strategic insight and proven leadership capabilities will be instrumental in driving our vision forward. With David at the helm, we are poised to expand our reach and elevate our services, to position DP World as a frontrunner in automotive logistics.”

D’Annunzio added: “I am honoured to join DP World, and to lead the automotive vertical during this time of growth and expansion. I’m eager to leverage my experience in automotive logistics to further strengthen DP World’s position in the industry and look forward to collaborating with our global teams to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations.”

Beat Simon, group chief commercial officer for logistics at DP World, looks at some of the big changes currently affecting the global automotive supply chain and the strategies logistics providers need to put in place to support customers through the transformation