To support the expansion of the company’s business in Japan, Sakura Kuma will join APM Terminals Japan as Managing Director effective 1 February 2021.

“I am pleased to welcome Sakura Kuma to APM Terminals Japan, where she will play a key role in the acceleration of our strategic transformation and lead the development of our business at the recently expanded Minami Honmoku terminals (MC1-4) in Yokohama”, says Tim Smith, Head of Terminals, Asia at APM Terminals.

Prior to joining APM Terminals, Sakura Kuma held several leadership positions within marketing and sales, new business development and corporate management in NYK, as well as secondments to NYK Bulk & Projects Carrier Ltd, Yusen Terminal Inc. and Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation (YKIP).

“With nearly two decades spent in the port, shipping and logistics industries, Sakura brings extensive experience, strong management skills and a proven record of business development. We are very pleased to have Sakura strengthen our leadership team and drive the exciting growth of our business in Japan,” adds Tim Smith.

“I am excited to join APM Terminals – a great company with a significant international portfolio. There is so much ports can do to deliver synergies and contribute to A.P. Moller – Maersk’s core strategy of integrated container logistics. I am looking forward to joining the team and it will be absolutely thrilling to become the first female Managing Director in a Japanese port.

Capacity increase in Yokohama

In 2020, APM Terminals Japan won a tender for a 10-year agreement with the Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation (YKIP) to increase existing berth capacity at its Yokohama terminal by adding two additional large berths (MC3 and MC4), giving APM Terminals a strong competitive edge as the only terminal operator in Greater Tokyo area capable of handling vessels up to 20,000 TEU.

The development increases terminal volumes from 1.1m TEU to 2.1m TEU and is expected to serve as platform for attracting additional liner customers. The expansion to a 4-berth facility creates a world-class integrated terminal with superior ocean capabilities and the opportunity to further develop landside products.