A HIGHLY respected ports and logistics consultancy, specialising in recruitment, commercial operations and project management, is changing hands later this summer.

Ragged Edge, for 16 years owned and led by Ian Mackenzie, is to be taken on by Justin Atkin, currently head of commercial on the Humber for Associated British Ports.

Mr Mackenzie, who served for more than a decade as divisional managing director of Exxtor Shipping Services Ltd, established Grimsby-based Ragged Edge as a resource for companies operating in maritime trade.

He recognised they were often under-resourced, and provided a service to help develop new business and manage projects as required.

Recruitment was added two years later, and the business has gone on to work internationally.

He said: “Relationships with customers and contacts have helped the business go from strength to strength since I founded it in 2000, and many companies and individuals have made use of our specialist recruitment, commercial consulting and project management services, for which I am sincerely thankful. Now it is time for Ragged Edge to announce a new development.

“At the end of August I will be retiring as managing director. As you can imagine identifying a successor to take Ragged Edge forward has been a massively important challenge. Justin Atkin, a well-respected member of the Humber shipping, logistics and business community will be taking over the reins here when I retire.

“I am delighted that Justin will be Ragged Edge’s new owner. Very well-regarded in our sector, Justin brings extensive expertise, great new ideas and a well-deserved excellent reputation among both customers and colleagues to his new role.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Justin to introduce him to our clients and ensure a smooth transition for the business.”

Mr Mackenzie said he wanted to thank the many people he had worked with, adding: “The loyalty, friendship, enthusiasm and support has been much appreciated and I am confident that it will be extended to Justin and to Ragged Edge as it moves forward.

“I know that Justin, ably assisted by our recruitment consultant Jane Bayliffe, will continue to provide our clients with the very best of service, taking the business forward and developing our contribution to this vital economic sector.”

Mr Atkin, who was schooled in Barton before going to university in Hull, was previously head of bulk operations for Grimsby & Immingham, moving to the pan-Humber role in January 2011.