In the remarkable surroundings Liverpool Cathedral, on Thursday 6th November 2025 Mersey Maritime once again gathered its members and distinguished guests drawn from across the sector to celebrate its annual Industry Awards. The awards are well known as one of the most significant events in the national maritime calendar and, now in their eleventh year, saw over 450 guests drawn from across the United Kingdom and beyond come together to recognise the exceptional achievements and innovations taking place in the maritime industry in the Liverpool City Region.
The Mersey Maritime Industry Awards continue to grow each year and 2025 has been no exception. More companies and individuals submitted applications than ever before which resulted in a highly competitive finalist stage. Submissions came from the whole breadth of the sector, which is testament to the diverse spectrum of talent and expertise on offer in this region. A rigorous judging process, which included expert assessment and scrutiny of the applications, concluded with an industry-wide vote, attracting a record-breaking 4,000 votes – proof indeed of the sector’s commitment to the awards and all that they represent.
For the second-year running, local journalist and presenter, Lucy Meacock, took on the role of host for the evening. Lucy is well known across the region following her distinguished 30-year career with ITV regional news. She once again brought her unique and engaging style to the proceedings on the night.
The prestigious Business of the Year Award was presented to Hill Dickinson LLP, one of the most respected names in maritime legal services across the globe.
A highlight of the evening is always the special recognition given to someone who has made an exceptional contribution to the maritime industry in the Liverpool City Region during their career, with the granting of the Maritime Ambassador Award. In 2025 the accolade went to Gary Doyle, former Group Harbour Master at Peel Ports Group, for his outstanding contribution to the UK maritime sector. From humble beginnings in Sefton, Gary served 35 years in the Royal Navy, leading NATO operations, strategic deployments, and commanding roles across sea, air, and land. Transitioning to Peel Ports Group, he revolutionised safety standards through innovation, earning national recognition. His record of voluntary service includes bringing Cunard’s Three Queens to Liverpool, chairing the Battle of the Atlantic Memorial, and mentoring the next generation through the Sea Cadets. Gary’s leadership, integrity, and dedication have left an enduring legacy for maritime safety and heritage. Mersey Maritime is honoured to have recognised his immense achievement to the industry in this way.
Diamond sponsors for the event were Liverpool John Moores University and Maersk, alongside other category sponsors drawn from across the sector. The awards celebrated the best-in-class within the maritime sector and highlighted the Liverpool City Region’s commitment to driving growth and investment.
Ruth Wood, CEO at Mersey Maritime, commented:
“Mersey Maritime’s 11th Annual Industry Awards were a true celebration of maritime excellence in the Liverpool City Region. These awards have become a flagship event both in Liverpool and across the UK, as they shine a spotlight on the innovation, talent, and ambition that continually drive our sector forward.
“Maritime is the foundation of our region’s economic identity and future growth potential. We are proud, having been recognised in the city region’s Local Growth Plan, of the part we will play in addressing key objectives, like closing the productivity gap, creating jobs, attracting investment, and leading the way in the drive towards net zero and cleaner, greener energy. This year has seen real momentum, from hosting the first London International Shipping Week event outside the capital to advancing innovation projects with nearly £1 billion focused on decarbonisation and future fuels.
“Our optimism for the future is borne out of the achievements that the MMIAs both recognise and spotlight. Our vision is clear: for Liverpool City Region to be recognised as a world leader in maritime innovation, education, inclusivity, and sustainability.
“With record engagement in this year’s awards and phenomenal support from our sponsors and partners, we celebrate not just achievements, but the shared ambition that will shape the future of maritime in our region.
“Huge congratulations to all our winners – your success marks you out as some of the very best professionals and businesses that our dynamic sector has to offer. We salute you!”
The full list of Mersey Maritime Industry Awards winners is as follows:
- BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Sponsored by Maersk
- Hill Dickinson LLP
- CHANGE MAKER AWARD: Sponsored by Peel Ports Group
- Dr Robyn Pyne (Liverpool John Moores University)
- DIVERSITY CHAMPION AWARD: Sponsored by WISTA UK
- Mersey Ferries
- EMPLOYER & FUTURE SKILLS AWARD: Sponsored by Royal Navy
- Maersk Logistics and Services
- LOGISTICS & TRADE EXCELLENCE AWARD: Sponsored by Kays Medical
- Denholm Good Logistics
- MARITIME AMBASSADOR AWARD 2025:
- Gary Doyle
- MARITIME ENABLER AWARD: Sponsored by Haskoning
- Propeller Club Liverpool
- NET ZERO CHAMPION AWARD: Sponsored by ACL
- Peel Ports Group
- POSITIVE IMPACT AWARD: Sponsored by Fort Recruitment
- APCL Cammell Laird and The Hive Youth Zone
- RISING STAR AWARD: Sponsored by APCL Cammell Laird
- Thomas Burns (Maritime Transport)
- SME OF THE YEAR: Sponsored by Liverpool John Moores University
- Brookes Bell
- TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION AWARD: Sponsored by Brookes Bell
- Bibby Marine
