Chichester Harbour Conservancy appoints new Chief Executive

Richard Craven, outgoing Director & Harbour Master, Cllr Ann Briggs – Chair of the Conservancy, Matt Briers CBE and Robert Macdonald, Chair of the Conservancy’s Advisory Committee

Chichester Harbour Conservancy has announced the appointment of Matt Briers CBE as Chief Executive of Chichester Harbour Conservancy from 25 April, following a competitive recruitment round.

Matt had a distinguished 37-year career in the Royal Navy, serving as a warfare officer at sea and aviator in the Fleet Air Arm. As well as a range of staff appointments in Whitehall, he commanded on three occasions with his final post being as Director Carrier Strike as a Rear Admiral. He has also held a lifelong interest in conservation and the environment.

Commenting on his appointment, Matt said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the outstanding team at Itchenor and Dell Quay. Chichester Harbour is special, being of international importance environmentally and a busy recreational area for boating, walkers and cyclists. As such, it is rightly recognised as an immense positive resource to people living in the local area. I very much look forward to working with all stakeholders to preserve and enhance the Harbour for future generations.”

Chair of the Conservancy, Cllr Ann Briggs said: “We’re very excited to have Matt, who brings a wealth of leadership and management experience as well as a genuine personal commitment to the environment, joining the Conservancy. I look forward to working with him for the holistic benefit of the Harbour and the critical role it plays for our area”.

Chichester Harbour Conservancy is the statutory authority for Chichester Harbour and, as a team, manages the Harbour and surrounding areas. The Conservancy focuses on recreation and leisure, conservation and landscape protection, ensuring Chichester Harbour is a destination for visitors to enjoy. It also runs an Education Service for families and schools.