Blog

Seasoned Supply Chain Expert and Former Powlett Group MD Paul Bell Joins OpenPort as CIO

(Press Release)

Hong Kong – April 30, 2018 — OpenPort, the digital logistics platform that uses blockchain technology to transform domestic distribution in emerging markets, today announced that former Powlett Group Managing Director Paul Bell will be joining its ranks as CIO. Paul joins after a stellar seven-year tenure with the Australian boutique supply chain and logistics consultancy, boasting a rich history of supply chain experience.

Commenting on the announcement, OpenPort Founder and CEO Max Ward said, “Paul is an incredible addition to our growing team and brings a wealth of experience in both supply chain consulting and industry-led business transformation. Paul’s arrival comes at a time of great vibrancy within the OpenPort community and we look forward to working alongside him on our exciting journey ahead.”

OpenPort’s blockchain-enabled electronic Proof of Delivery Program has the potential to fundamentally change the logistics landscape, providing better than market liquidity for transporters and irrefutable transparency for shippers. Delivering real-time status updates from tender through to the delivery stage, OpenPort facilitates lower costs, increased control, and improved cash flow. Already supporting many of the world’s largest shippers, including engagements with seven of the 10 largest multinational FMCGs, OpenPort is Asia’s only multinational digital logistics provider.

New OpenPort CIO Paul Bell said, “Having spent the past 20 years honing my expertise within the supply chain space, I am very enthused at the prospect of beginning a new chapter with OpenPort as they transform logistics. I’ve been impressed with the team’s unwavering vision for a blockchain-powered supply chain space and their commitment to the principles of transparency and efficiency. In this role I look forward to playing a part in shaping the future of OpenPort, and in turn, the future of the logistics industry.”

Paul Bell is a tertiary qualified Supply Chain professional with 20 years experience in both supply chain consultancy and industry-led business transformation. Bell has extensive experience in scoping, planning, managing, and delivering Supply Chain and Logistics Systems Programs for Australia’s largest shippers and third-party logistics providers.

“Bringing Paul on board elevates our platform and highlights the firm confidence in our offering among leaders in the space. Our overarching ambition to lead the blockchain-powered logistics movement is intrinsically linked to the amazing calibre of our valued staff, and today’s announcement signals our intent to build the most sophisticated and robust team of industry experts to bring our vision of blockchain-powered logistics to fruition,” concluded Ward.

This announcement comes as OpenPort recently launched the Open Enterprise Logistics (OEL) Foundation, a non-profit organization open to enterprises in the supply chain and logistics industry. The Foundation is committed to providing governance, development, and open source collaboration for the OEL Protocol and is preparing for its token generation event (TGE) which is set to commence later this year.