THE BOSS of one of Hampshire’s biggest cross-Solent ferry firms has a been promoted.

Red Funnel has announced that Kevin George, the current chief executive officer, is to be appointed to Chairman of the Group.

The announcement follows the restructuring of the board following the acquisition of the group by a consortium of UK and Canadian pension funds in July last year and the recent appointment of a number of non-executive directors.

Mr George said the change of role in Red Funnel would allow him to devote more time to the economic challenges of the Island upon which the growth of Red Funnel is so dependent.

He said: “I am delighted and honoured to be asked by our new Shareholders to become the Chairman of the Red Funnel Group.

“I have been CEO of Red Funnel for four years now, during which time we have achieved a huge amount, not least the securing of new long-term investors, new Red Jets built on the Isle of Wight, the refurbishment of the vehicle ferries, enhanced customer service and cleared the way for the urgently needed larger terminal in East Cowes.

“However, the time is right for me to now assume a more strategic role in helping guide not only the growth of Red Funnel but to also help promote the economic growth of the Island.”

Ed Wilson, chief investment officer, Pensions Infrastructure Platform, on behalf of the Red Funnel Shareholder consortium said “Since acquiring the Red Funnel business in July last year we have been impressed by the strength of the Red Funnel management team and the clarity of their medium-term business plan.

“As part of our long-term vision for the business, the way the Isle of Wight economy develops is critical to the strategic direction of the business.

“In his time as CEO, Kevin has not only developed the business, but also his understanding of the Island and the issues it faces.

“Appointing Kevin as our chairman will enable him to focus on these matters as well as overseeing the performance of the Red Funnel business.”

The appointment takes immediate effect with Mr George fulfilling both roles until a new chief executive is appointed later in the year.