Captain Brian Murphy is to be the new CEO of Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC).

He will take over from Jim Stewart on July 1.

Brian has been with PHC since 2004.

He was appointed as Harbour Master in 2008 and was given the extra responsibility of Marine & Port Director in 2018.

An independent body, PHC regulates the leisure, commercial and environmental activities of Poole Harbour, Europe’s largest natural harbour.

Jim Stewart, pictured left, was appointed CEO of PHC in January 2002.

Last December he advised the Board of his intention to stand down this June.

Highlights of his time at Poole include the development of two award-winning marinas, a harbour deepening project and the construction of the 200 metre South Quay.

During his 21 years with PHC Jim held a number of other positions including Chair of British Ports Association, Chair of Maritime UK, Chair of UK Port Skills & Safety and Chair of Dorset LEP.

In 2018 he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Bournemouth University for services to shipping.

He said: “Although I will be sorry to leave one of best jobs in the UK maritime world, I am proud to depart with the organisation in good financial shape and with both an ambitious and experienced Board and an excellent management team in place.

“PHC have some exciting plans for the future which will be encapsulated in our new Port Masterplan.”

A Master Mariner, Brian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role having spent 40 years in the ports and shipping industry.

It included having command of what was then the largest reefer capacity container vessel in the world at the age of 33.

Since joining PHC he has restructured the marine department, which included bringing the pilotage service in-house, ensured continued compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code and successfully introduced the largest Ro-Ro ferry and cruise vessels to the Port of Poole.

Brian brings expertise in customer relationship management, employee engagement and maximising operational efficiency.

He is currently Vice President of the UK Harbour Masters Association (UKHMA), Younger Brother of Trinity House, Associate Fellow of the Nautical institute and previous Chair of the South West Regional Ports Association.

Brian said: “I am both delighted and honoured to have been appointed CEO of Poole Harbour Commissioners.

“During my time as senior executive and Board member, I have had the good fortune of working alongside a dedicated team, sharing my passion for Poole Harbour and the Port of Poole.

“Together we will explore the exciting opportunities ahead to grow as an organisation for the benefit of the port and harbour community.

“I’d like to thank Jim Stewart for handing over the reins in such good order and I look forward to leading the organisation as we implement our ambitious new masterplan.”

Lee Hardy OBE, pictured right, Chair of PHC, said: “Whilst we will be sorry to see Jim depart after 21 years of sterling service at PHC, I am delighted with the appointment of Brian after following a thorough recruitment process which attracted interest from candidates across the world.

“PHC will continue to fulfil its statutory duties and protect the interests of our stakeholders.

“We are well placed to take advantage of some great opportunities within the maritime and marine leisure sectors while also developing our credentials as a leading green port.”

• Brian’s love for his job – read our 2021 profile of Captain Brian Murphy by clicking here.