Meet the team

James joined the Freeport as its first Chief Executive in June 2023. He has over 25 years’ experience leading organisations across a range of industries include in the Engineering Sector, Environmental Sector and Public Sector.

James’ background and skills are in sustainable development, regeneration and economic development.

James is the Assistant Director of Finance for Portsmouth City Council who are the Accountable Body for the Freeport.

He has worked in a range of different finance roles across the Council his entire career and has supported the Freeport since its initial inception. He has very wide public sector experience including interfacing with Government departments and Private Sector partners.

Carla is the Business Growth and Investment Manager for the Solent Freeport; her primary focus is to attract new businesses to the Freeport tax sites and support the growth ambitions of existing Solent businesses.

Having worked in Economic Development for more than 15 years, Carla is experienced in inward investment, business support, marketing, event management and regeneration.

Kate is the Programme Manager for the Solent Freeport, focussing on the Seed Capital funds and future investments. She also supports the governance and assurance framework.

Kate has over 20 years’ experience in economic development, regeneration, fund management, governance and compliance, working in public and public-private sectors.

Victoria works in the projects team within the Finance department at Portsmouth City Council, which is the Accountable Body for the Solent Freeport.

She has a range of experience in both private and public finance roles and has worked with the Solent Freeport for the last couple of years.

Nicola has worked at the Solent Freeport from the beginning in her role as Executive Assistant.  Prior to this Nicola worked at the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and held several roles in the Financial Service Industry.

Chloe has recently joined the Solent Freeport Team as a Business Administrator Apprentice. She will be working across all aspects of the Freeport to support the Programme team.