Throughout 2024, Matthew Ship embarked on a progression path within Carlisle under the guidance of his manager, John Angel, the Head of Operations. During this time, John served as a mentor to Matthew, fostering his development to enhance his career prospects within the company. With John’s support, Matthew advanced in his role, creating opportunities for his second-in-command at Portsmouth International Port (PIP), Aaron Thomas-Gray. Aaron, who had been serving as a Shift Supervisor, was able to step up into the position of Acting Deputy Contract Manager.
Aaron joined Portsmouth International Port (PIP) in October 2021 as a Security Officer, a few months before Matthew Ship assumed the role of Contract Manager in December 2021. Aaron’s enthusiasm was evident from their very first conversation, during which he requested a meeting to discuss an ambitious question: “How do I become a manager within Carlisle?”
Matthew Ship had an in-depth conversation with Aaron about the process of advancing within the company and how he could dedicate himself to learning the skills necessary to ensure Portsmouth International Port (PIP) operated smoothly and efficiently. Aaron embraced this guidance wholeheartedly, voluntarily giving up his own time to attend training sessions on his days off and consistently seeking clarification whenever he was unsure. Upon stepping into the role of Shift Supervisor, Aaron took responsibility for overseeing shifts and ensuring their seamless execution. He continues to expand his knowledge and develop the expertise required to become a Contract Manager.
Over the following months, while Aaron applied his knowledge and training as a Shift Supervisor, Matthew Ship had the opportunity to focus on advancing his own career within Carlisle. After discussions with clients and John Angel, it was determined that Aaron was more than capable of managing the PIP contract. This decision enabled Matthew to collaborate with John and gain insights into the operations of other contracts.
In October 2023, Matthew was asked to assist with the mobilisation of the new ExCeL London contract for a few days. Before accepting, he confirmed with Aaron that he was comfortable stepping up to ensure the day-to-day operations at the port ran smoothly in his absence. Initially expected to last only a few days, the mobilisation extended into several months after discussions with PIP clients, John Angel, and Yameen Choudhry (Head of Operations). During this period, Aaron took on the role of Acting Deputy Contract Manager at the port, excelling in his responsibilities.
This arrangement allowed Matthew to assist with additional project mobilisations, including Camden Council, while Aaron continued to oversee operations at PIP as Acting Deputy Contract Manager. Aaron’s exceptional performance was recognised when he received a Highly Commended Quarterly Superstar Award in Q4. His dedication also contributed to Matthew’s achievement of the Contract Manager of the Year award at the Annual Superstar Awards Ceremony.
Matthew expressed his gratitude to Aaron for his hard work and commitment during his absence, as well as to the PIP client Joe Jordan for supporting this transition. He also extended his thanks to John Angel and Yameen Choudhry for their invaluable mentorship throughout his journey.






