Chichester Harbour Conservancy has appointed Joanna Cox as Harbour Master. Jo joins the Senior Management Team at the Conservancy, responsible for the safe operation of Chichester Harbour, and management of the Harbour Team.
Jo has a strong maritime background, serving in the Merchant Navy and the British Antarctic Survey where she combined sea going and scientific research, progressing to Chief Officer with Master Mariners certification. In 2012 Jo was appointed Government Officer on the remote sub-Antarctic Island of South Georgia involving Harbour Master, Fisheries Officer and other duties. She then took up her first command as Captain on the Royal Research Ship Discovery, before time in the Falklands as Harbour Master in their newly formed Maritime Authority.
Commenting on her appointment, Jo said, “Chichester Harbour is a very special place, and to be part of the team tasked with ensuring that it’s safe and accessible to users is a privilege. The appeal of this role was the opportunity to combine my professional skills and passion for the environment and conservation. The Harbour is used by a vast array of different craft, and my role is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the harbour safely, whilst preserving the unique environment for future generations. Having just returned from time in the Falklands, it’s also wonderful to be home!”
Matt Briers CBE, CEO of Chichester Harbour Conservancy added, “Jo’s skills made her a unique and very special candidate for this role. Since joining us she’s made a significant impact – her knowledge of this stretch of water and coastline is invaluable, and she’s already established some excellent maritime working groups and built strong connections.”
