Welcome Aboard to the new Harbour Master – Paul Britton

Following an extensive search Dart Harbour are pleased to announce Paul Britton as the harbour’s new Harbour Master/CEO. Paul has been appointed following a thorough selection process, impressing the Board and representatives from our stakeholder groups with his vision and fresh perspective.

Paul is a long-time resident of South Devon with roots and a home in Brixham and a love of walking and kayaking in our wonderful region. Over the last 20+ years Paul has developed a strong reputation within the marine industry, initially spending 12 years at sea, including holding the post of Safety Officer on board a number of large cruise ships and ferries before coming ashore and taking up a variety of Port Operations roles. Having also worked for P&O, Irish Ferries and TUI Paul will join us from his current role as Manager of Marine Operations, Ports and Itinerary Planning for Disney Cruise Line.

As well as scoring strongly in terms of his technical knowledge (including topics related to port safety, harbour operations, environmental awareness, community focus and financial understanding) Paul stood out from the other shortlist candidates due to his vision, and highly collaborative approach. Not only did he talk about building relationships and working with stakeholders to make the Harbour a safe and inclusive place – he consistently demonstrated this throughout the process. He will also bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to the role, working with our existing team to make Dart Harbour an even better place to live, work and play.

Paul is due to take up his post on Monday 14th March once he has served his notice period with his current employer, although he is already working with the team and meeting stakeholders and has been working closely with Chair Tim Dewing on plans for the year ahead and Dart Harbour’s ongoing strategic planning process. Tim commented: “I am very excited about Paul joining Dart Harbour as Harbourmaster/CEO, he impressed us all with his focus on safety and his desire to work in partnership with staff and stakeholders. He is smart, cares about the area and marks a fresh start for Dart Harbour. I hope everyone will join me in welcoming Paul to the post and wishing him well.”

Paul takes over the post from Acting Harbour Master Rob Everitt who has been covering the post since September of 2021. Having enjoyed seven successful years at Dart Harbour, and having supported the organisation during Paul’s recruitment, Rob is due to depart Dart Harbour for ‘waters new’ at the end of January.

During the period between Rob’s departure and Paul’s start with Dart Harbour (27th January to 14th March) the authority will be led by Captain Richard Eggleton on an interim basis. Captain Eggleton remains the authority’s Chief Pilot, and is known to Dart Harbour’s stakeholders. He also knows the river well having served previously as an interim Harbour Master/CEO and Board member.

The Board would like to thank Rob Everitt for his superb commitment during his time with Dart Harbour, particularly over the last five months when he has demonstrated clear, calm leadership. The Board are also grateful for Captain Eggleton’s flexibility and support in covering the role of Harbour Master/CEO until Paul Britton is able to take up the post. Chair Tim Dewing commented “Rich is well known and has a good relationships with our stakeholders and staff. He also knows the river well. We are lucky to have his support again, and thank him for helping us bridge the gap between Rob’s departure and Paul’s start. I know that Rich will keep us safe, and do what he can to set Paul up for success”.