“What an honour and a privilege.”

The reaction of Captain Brian Murphy, of Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), after his election as Vice President – and President-Elect – of the UK Harbour Master’s Association (UKHMA).

The Association comprises harbour masters from publicly owned, privately owned and trust ports across the UK.

Formed in 1993, its main objective is to encourage the safe and efficient conduct of marine operations in ports and harbours and to promote the interests and professional competence of harbour masters.

Captain Murphy has been employed by PHC for 16 years.

He started his career with PHC as Assistant Harbour Master, Pilot, Pilotage Manager and VTS Manager before progressing to Harbour Master in 2008.

In 2018 Captain Murphy also took on the additional role of Marine & Port Director.

Prior to joining PHC, he worked his way up through the ranks at sea, from trainee to Captain.

Ashley Nicholson, UKHMA President, said: “Brian has been a great addition to the executive council of the Association over the last couple of years.

“His knowledge and enthusiasm are much valued by his harbour master peers on the council and our wider industry network.

“We wish Brian all the best in his new role and are assured that his time as Vice President of the UKHMA shall be a great success.”

Captain Murphy said: “What an honour and a privilege to be elected as Vice President of the Association that has played a huge part in my development as a UK harbour master.

“The Association is pivotal in ensuring that the voice of the harbour master of ports and harbours, large or small, is heard.

“It is a very exciting opportunity in my career and I’m very much looking forward to working closely with the rest of the team to uphold the objectives of the Association.”

The UKHMA’s wealth of experience is sought after, and highly appreciated, in many inter-industry forums, working groups and consultations.

They include those initiated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), Department for Transport (DfT), Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), regional government bodies and other organisations.