David Benson

Chairman

Taking on the role of Chairman during 2007, David Benson has brought a wealth of experience and expertise that spans many aspects of the global transportation industry. With particular knowledge of technical, marketing and operational facets of port, train and ferry services at multi-national levels, David's stewardship of the Port is underpinned by a strong sense of commercial realism, together with an approachable management style.

David has held senior positions in a number of internationally recognised companies including Passenger Marketing Director for P&O Ferries Ltd, Chief Executive of the Venice-Simplon-Orient Express, Director of Virgin Atlantic Airways and Chairman of the Great North Eastern Railway. David was Senior Vice President Passenger Transportation for Sea Containers Ltd before he retired from full time employment in 2006. He has since worked as Ferry Advisor to Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund, where he sits on the Board and Risk and Audit committee of Wightlink Isle of Wight Ferries. He also assisted Go Ahead Rail Ltd on their successful rebid for the South Central passenger rail franchise.

As Chairman, he sees his role as focussing on achieving improved financial results in order to provide economic and social benefits for the local stakeholders; also to provide funds for investment by the Port and for maintaining port infrastructure to a high standard for current and future users.