The boss of Southampton port Nick Ridehalgh, has been elected as a director of Solent LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership).

His involvement in the partnership, which seeks to boost economic development in the region, follows in the footsteps of his predecessor, Doug Morrison, who was Chairman of Solent LEP until his retirement last year.

As a director Nick will be involved in determining economic priorities and undertaking activities to drive economic growth and the creation of jobs.

Gary Jeffries, Chairman of Solent LEP, said: “We are delighted to welcome Nick to the board. His considerable experience in the marine and maritime industry will be of huge benefit to us and the Solent as a whole.

“With ABP Port of Southampton contributing £714 million to the Solent economy and supporting 14,730 jobs, Nick knows first-hand the important role businesses have to play in making the region a prosperous place where people want to live and work.”

Nick added: “Being involved in the future of Southampton and the Solent is something I am passionate about. The region has so many businesses with huge potential and it is important that the public and private sector work together to support them, taking every opportunity to help them grow and prosper.

“I am very much looking forward to being a part of the board and helping to shape the future of the Solent.”

Nick took up his role as Director ABP January and has since been heavily involved in improving the region as a place to do business. He is a member of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce’s Southampton Business Board and has overseen a multi-million pound investment package at the port to boost trade into and out of the city.

He was elected to the Solent LEP board by a vote of business members after responding to a call for Solent business leaders working in marine, maritime logistics, ports and key international gateways.

He joins a fully elected, private sector led board consisting of leaders from the Solent business, local authority and academic community.