Business

Theresa Donaldson takes over as first female chair of Belfast Harbour

Outgoing chair of Belfast Habour, David Dobbin, with new chair, Theresa Donaldson.
Outgoing chair of Belfast Habour, David Dobbin, with new chair, Theresa Donaldson. Outgoing chair of Belfast Habour, David Dobbin, with new chair, Theresa Donaldson.

THE first female chair in the history of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, Theresa Donaldson, has paid tribute to outgoing chair David Dobbin, who has stepped down after six years in the role.

The former Dale Farm boss took over as chairman in 2015 and helped oversee record levels of trade, financial performance and £250 million of investment in major infrastructure projects.

“Belfast Harbour’s ambitious investment programme in economically and socially significant projects for the port and region have helped transform Belfast’s waterfront, creating an attractive place for people to work, visit and live,” said Dr Dobbins.

“I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my best wishes to my successor, Theresa Donaldson.”

A former chief executive with an extensive portfolio of public appointments, Dr Donaldson hailed David Dobbins' "significant contribution" to the development of Belfast Harbour during the last decade.

“Belfast Harbour is essential to the smooth running of day-to-day life in this region and a major contributor to Northern Ireland’s economy,” she said.

“I want to ensure we continue to work in partnership with all of our stakeholders to achieve Belfast Harbour’s vision to become the world’s best regional port by growing economic activity, adopting new smart technology and upholding the highest environmental standards as a clean, green port.”