Falmouth Harbour appoints new commissioner
Gerald Pitts is joining the board of Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) as harbour commissioner.
The appointment comes after Pitts took a brief retirement from his roles as managing director of dock-owners A&P Falmouth and, latterly, the A&P Group’s defence MD.
“In my role as a Falmouth Harbour commissioner, I feel I will be able to combine my extensive knowledge and experience of the commercial shipping world with a lifelong connection with Cornwall in general and Falmouth in particular – providing valuable input and support to the harbour stakeholders and the wider marine community,” he says.
Pitts will replace Gary Tranter, who is retiring after nine years’ service on the board, which manages the Trust Port.
Pitts’ global experience in the commercial shipping industry will help influence strategy within the FHC remit, which covers Falmouth Harbour, Falmouth Haven and Falmouth Pilot Services.
“Managing a Trust Port is a demanding privilege which requires dedication and commitment – and which allows us to make a very real difference,” says FHC chair, Carrie Gilmore. “As a small but dynamic board, we operate transparently and accountably – and knowing that we will miss Gary’s wisdom and insight, we also feel truly fortunate to have a candidate of Gerald’s calibre to join us – with exactly the broad mix of skills and extensive senior level experience in the commercial maritime industries that we hoped to find.”
The FHC’s board, comprising seven commissioners and a CEO, and committee have strategic oversight of a wide range of activities which are vital to the safe management and economic prosperity of the harbour, with statutory responsibility for the navigation and conservation of approximately 16 square miles.
“After a long and fascinating career, I look forward to joining Falmouth Harbour commissioners working alongside an incredibly professional team led by Harbour CEO Miles Carden – at the very heart of one of the most strategically important and beautiful ports in the world,” adds Pitts.
