Tributes have poured in after John Winn, founder of the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA) passed away.
Over his professional career, Winn helped to set up one of the first Port Community Systems in the world, Felixstowe-based Maritime Cargo Processing (MCP), and later on, used his legal expertise to help set up EPCSA and IPCSA.
Winn also became a founder of Felixstowe and Ipswich Shipping Opportunities (FISO), the forerunner of the Haven Gateway Partnership (HGP).
“A legend has died. We will always remember the pleasant conversations, his wisdom and optimism. We will miss him,” said IPCSA Chairman, Hans Rook.
Steve Lamb, MCP, Felixstowe, added “During its formative years, Maritime Cargo Processing was privileged to benefit from a number of industry visionaries; John Winn was the one who bridged the inescapable conflicts between vested interests, commercial viability and legal stability.
“His dogged pursuance of a viable corporate constitution significantly contributed to our ability to develop and expand a port community concept from a ‘Felixstowe system’ to a fully integrated system that is now operational throughout the UK.
“John Winn was a true founding father of the company and his drive, integrity, passion and respect remain embedded in the company ethos today. He played a vital role for MCP in its early years, and such was the quality of his work that the legal framework he created remains to this day. He was indeed a very colourful character, with his wit and kindness enjoyed by many.”
Richard Morton, Secretary General of IPCSA, also commented “John was a professional, supportive and great fun. We feel grateful to have known him and we will all miss him. We send our deepest sympathy to his family and all his friends at this sad time.”
