Move Logistics founder and New Zealand transport industry stalwart Jim Ramsay has died aged 77.
The company described him as a “pioneering figure” in the trucking and logistics sector whose vision and leadership helped shape the business into one of New Zealand’s largest logistics operators.
Ramsay’s association with the transport industry spanned more than five decades. He joined New Plymouth trucking company Hookers Bros in 1968 before leading a partnership that bought the business in 1988 when it consisted of 30 trucks, 10 of which were not operating, and 40 staff.
Under his leadership the business grew through acquisitions and expansion, eventually becoming one of New Zealand’s largest freight and logistics companies. The company, now operating as Move Logistics, provides freight, warehousing, specialist haulage, fuel delivery, international freight services and trans-Tasman shipping.
When he retired from the Move Logistics board in 2021 after more than 50 years in transport, Ramsay told TransportTalk one of his proudest achievements was helping grow the company while providing secure employment for generations of workers.
“The partnership worked. We were told that it wouldn’t, but it’s wonderful what open minds, open dialogue and a few open bottles can do,” he said.
“We were younger guys and apart from working hard we certainly had a good time too.”
Ramsay was widely respected throughout the transport industry and served for many years on the executive of his local Road Transport Association NZ branch, including several terms as president. He was awarded life membership of the branch in 2009 and was inducted into the New Zealand Road Transport Hall of Fame in 2013.
In 2011 he received the Supreme Mayoral Award for Business Excellence from the New Plymouth District Council and was also made a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.
Move Logistics says Ramsay’s influence extended well beyond the company.
“Jim not only made an immense contribution to Move but also to the wider transport and logistics industry in New Zealand.”
“His passion for the industry, his dedication to the business, down to earth personality and can-do attitude were essential ingredients in Move’s success.”
The company says Ramsay’s legacy will continue through the organisation he helped build and the relationships he developed across the industry.
“His legacy lives on across our organisation and in the relationships he built over decades.”
“On behalf of all staff, past and present, directors and shareholders, we acknowledge Jim’s contributions to our company and the trucking industry in New Zealand. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
