Fran Collins, Chief Executive at Red Funnel, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Neil to Red Funnel. He brings with him a passion for the Isle of Wight following 15 years of working collaboratively with Island businesses, customers and residents, and a deep understanding of the requirements of operating lifeline services.

“His experience in the travel and maritime industry gives him an excellent understanding in managing the reliability of our existing fleet alongside progressing our exciting plans for new tonnage. These include our new partnership with Artemis, which will add a zero-emission, electric e-foiling passenger ferry to our Hi-Speed service, as well as the design and build of a more modern and sustainable vehicle ferry fleet.

We know that choosing the right candidate to support our future ambitions is critical to Red Funnel, our customers and our stakeholders, and we have undertaken a stringent and rigorous recruitment process over the past few months. We’ve also ensured full compliance with the Competition Act 1998 in making Neil’s appointment.

“We look forward to Neil joining our team in May and getting to know the business from the inside out.” 

Neil Chapman, Operations Director at Red Funnel, said: “Spending time on the Island regularly, I understand it is essential for Islanders to have access to a reliable service, and Red Funnel has a unique responsibility as a lifeline service provider. At the heart of my role will be ensuring safety and reliability. This includes the existing operations, but I am also excited to be involved in developing the future fleet, ensuring Red Funnel has a sustainable future to continue serving the Island community.”

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