A FORMER British diplomat to China has been named as the new head of Invest NI.
Kevin Holland will join the economic support agency on October 21. After a period of transition, he will officially take over from Alastair Hamilton as chief executive during November.
Mr Hamilton, who has held the post for 10 years, announced his intention to step down in February. The former DUP special adviser said at the time he would remain in the position until his successor was found.
Kevin Holland is from Bristol and his extensive business background includes 10 years at Unilever and 15 years with US life sciences company Baxter, working across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
Between 2016 and 2019, he held the post of minister-counsellor for life sciences, health and social care at the British Embassy in Beijing, helping expand trade and market access for UK companies in China.
Announcing the appointment chair of Invest NI, Rose Mary Stalker said Mr Holland was an experienced global business leader with more than 25 years international expertise leading and advising business growth and investment in over 50 countries.
“He was an outstanding candidate bringing a strong combination of international business experience and leadership skills.
“Kevin will ensure Invest NI continues to build on the strong progress which the organisation has made under Alastair’s leadership.
“On behalf of the board of Invest NI, both current and previous, I would like to acknowledge and thank Alastair for the dedication, commitment and focus which he has provided to Invest NI and his wider contribution to advancing the Northern Ireland economy over the past ten years.
“Together with my board colleagues and the team at Invest NI we look forward to working with Kevin as he takes up his new role at a challenging time locally, nationally and internationally.”
