A HAMPSHIRE cargo handling firm is starting the new year with a new face at the helm.

Solent Stevedores has appointed Ian Jacobs as managing director, having been general manager since September 2009.

Ian said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role at such a dynamic time for the business. “The values and culture of the company have been the very foundations which have enabled us to grow significantly over the last 12 years.

“With operations in the Port of Southampton, the Port of Jersey and on the River Thames in London, we are fortunate to have a very strong and capable team and I am looking forward to continuing the success by building on relationships and developing new ones.”