New names are on boards as port makes appointments (From Western Telegraph)

New names are on boards as port makes appointments

10:00am Tuesday 10th July 2012 in Milford Haven

FOUR board members have been appointed by Milford Haven Port Authority under a new procedure brought about by a change in the port’s constitution.

Previously, all non-executive members and the chairman were appointed by the Secretary of State for Transport.

Under the revised arrangements, only the chairman will continue to be appointed by the Secretary of State.

The remaining members will all be appointed by the authority itself.

The board members named are: Rick Squires, Gareth Lynn, David Snelson and Fiona Birt-Llewellin.

Rick Squires is said to have extensive experience in energy as a non-executive director or chairman of a number of renewable energy businesses.

He said “I am delighted to have joined the port authority as the port continues to grow as the energy capital of the UK. There is a real opportunity to attract renewable energy projects and businesses.”

Gareth Lynn has been reappointed having first taken up his post in 2008. He founded one of Wales’ leading firms of independent accountants and brought a wealth of knowledge to the job as chairman of the authority’s audit committee.

He said: “I am looking forward to continuing the work of building the Port for the benefit of the economy as a whole.”

David Snelson has significant marine and port experience.

Having started in the Royal Navy, he rose to rank of Rear Admiral having commanded warships including the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal. He said: “Myprevious experience gives me an ideal opportunity to ensure that whilst investing for the future growth of the business the core responsibility of the port, the safe and efficient handling of ships, continues to be appropriately resourced and managed.”

Fiona Birt-Llewellin is another re-appointment, having also taken up the post in 2008. She has had a career as a senior HR professional with 22 years experience, and said: “Having been so closely involved with the port during a period of significant expansion and revenue growth, I am very pleased to be able to continue building upon our success ”.

Authority chairman, David Benson said: “The new members bring relevant experience and skills thatweneed to grow the business and achieve our vision of providing port infrastructure and services with energy and excellence.”