Dover Harbour Board Welcomes New Chair

The Secretary of State for Transport, the Rt Hon Mark Harper MP, has appointed Jason Holt as the new Chair of Dover Harbour Board. Mr Holt commenced his role on 20th March 2023, taking over from Richard Everitt who held the position from 1st July 2016.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Holt said: “What a fantastic time to be joining Dover Harbour Board. With a clear new mission and exciting vision, the Port is pursuing an ambitious agenda that is championing innovation and opportunity whilst being a leader in tackling some of our biggest challenges locally, nationally and internationally. Together with a refreshed board, the executive team and every one of our employees, I am really excited to be part of the journey.”

Reflecting on the announcement, the Port of Dover’s CEO, Doug Bannister, said: “As our contemporary new brand illustrates, we are very much about harnessing fresh perspectives whilst remaining responsible custodians of our historically important port and harbour. Jason brings extensive commercial experience from the aviation industry as well as valuable insights from the charitable and education sectors. Having also worked at a senior level across government, he is well placed to guide us in delivering future success for the port, for our people and for our community, alongside the businesses we work with and support both here and right across the nation.

“On behalf of the team, I would also like to thank Richard Everitt for his stewardship over the past seven years, helping us navigate some choppy waters and leaving us ready to embrace a bold new chapter.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• The Port of Dover is closing the gap every day between the UK and the world by connecting trade, travel, visitors and communities locally-globally, collaborating with local and international partners to create a more seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port.
• As the UK’s busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers.
• Dover is also an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to the most prestigious cruise lines. With a growing and diversifying cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a brand-new marina which is a major feature of the exciting waterfront development, and opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.