Finbarr Dowling appointed as chair of Humber Freeport — The Hull Story

Mr Dowling said: "I'm honoured to be appointed as chair of Humber Freeport and I'm looking forward to working closely with the Freeport board, executive team and partners to realise the many exciting opportunities that freeport status offers.

"Having dedicated much of the past 12 years to delivering large-scale on the Humber, I know this region is a great place to invest and do business.

"Recent developments, including the Government's restated commitment to Freeports, and the establishment of combined authorities led by elected Mayors, have added to the positive landscape for the region.

"Working collaboratively with partners within the region and outside it, Humber Freeport has an important role to play in securing investment, driving growth and creating high-value jobs. I'm pleased that, as chair of the Freeport, I can continue to contribute to driving the Humber forward."

Mr Dowling was the project director for Siemens Gamesa's investment, in partnership with Associated British Ports, in an offshore wind turbine blade factory, assembly and logistics operations at Alexandra Dock in Hull.

This investment cemented the Humber's position as a world class centre for offshore wind power and has created well over 1,000 jobs directly.

He was later appointed as director of localisation for Siemens Mobility and has driven forward the development of an industry-leading rail centre of excellence in Goole.

Siemens Mobility's Goole Rail Village features a trains factory, currently assembling new tube trains for the London Underground, as well as components, logistics, innovation and office facilities, with a bogie assembly and service centre currently under construction.

The Goole investment is creating up to 1,000 new jobs directly, as well as around 1,700 supply chain opportunities.

Over this time, Mr Dowling has built strong, collaborative relationships with local authorities, MPs, partner organisations, businesses and stakeholders within and outside the region, as well as in Government circles.

He has also led and supported several social value programmes, engaging with local schools, charities and community projects. These have included being a founding member and the launch vice chair of Hull's employer-led school, Ron Dearing UTC.

Prof Juster will continue as acting chair until Mr Dowling takes up the role on a permanent basis.

Prof Juster has led the board since the Freeport's founding chair, Simon Bird, stepped down in January, having spearheaded the process of securing freeport status and leading the Board since the organisation was formally established in summer 2023.