The newly-appointed non-executive chair of Ports of Jersey’s board is set to take up the position at the start of next month as he prepares to help deliver the States-owned entity’s “ambitious plans for the future”.
David Brown, whose appointment follows a recruitment process undertaken with the support of the Jersey Appointments Commission, brings four decades of experience across transport and critical infrastructure.
He succeeds Geoffrey Spence, who has served on the board since 2018 and as chair since July 2024.
Ports has thanked Mr Spence “for his leadership and contribution to the organisation”, as he reverts back to his non-executive director role before his tenure comes to an end in May 2027.
Mr Brown’s career has seen him hold a number of leadership positions.
The airport, harbours and essential services play a vital role in island life, and I look forward to working with the board, Matt and the wider team to support safe, reliable connectivity and the organisation’s ambitious plans for the future
David Brown, non-executive chair of Ports of Jersey’s board
Currently chair of Renew Holdings, his background also includes ten years as group chief executive of Go-Ahead Group and previously as managing director of surface transport at Transport for London.
Commenting on the appointment, Ports chief executive Matt Thomas cited Mr Brown’s “outstanding experience of transport, infrastructure and public service”, as well as his “strong record of leading organisations through change”.
Mr Thomas added: “His judgement, governance expertise and collaborative approach will be valuable as we continue to invest in the island’s critical gateways and deliver for our customers and community.”
Mr Brown described his appointment as a “privilege”.
He said: “The airport, harbours and essential services play a vital role in island life, and I look forward to working with the board, Matt and the wider team to support safe, reliable connectivity and the organisation’s ambitious plans for the future.”
