Portsmouth International Port has announced that its head of operations Ian Diaper will take up the new role of deputy director.

Diaper, who has spent four years in his current position, will now fully deputise for port director Mike Sellers, as the port continues to expand, following the launch of its 20-year masterplan.

Since the announcement of this plan, the port has completed a carbon-neutral terminal extension and secured the power capacity required to become the “UK’s leading shore power port”, a statement said.

The port added that during Diaper’s time as head of operations its number of cruise calls has tripled.

Portsmouth port has ‘ambitious’ goals

Diaper said: “As a major UK port, critical route for cross-channel trade and the Channel Islands, Portsmouth is a fantastic place to work with huge opportunities for the future.

“I’m hugely proud of the ambitious statements we’re making on sustainability and working alongside our customers and partners to achieve joint goals.

“The industry is changing and I want to ensure that we are moving at the same pace to become a smart port of the future.

“My aim is also to establish Portsmouth as the UK’s second largest cruise port. When I first joined we were welcoming around 20 cruise calls a year – we are now looking at nearly 100 calls for 2023 and this is only increasing, thanks to our dedicated team.”

Sellers added: “With the port’s ongoing success, the requirement for a deputy director became clear. Ian’s proven expertise have been invaluable and will continue to support our future plans.

“I am very grateful for the work Ian and his operations team have achieved in the last four years and look forward to seeing what comes next.”