DAME Susan Rice DBE has been appointed as the inaugural independent Chair of Forth Green Freeport. This appointment signifies a pivotal step in overseeing the delivery and governance of the consortium’s visionary plan to establish a green growth strategy for Scotland’s industrial corridor.
Dame Susan Rice, a highly respected chartered banker with an illustrious career in finance, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She served as the former Chair and CEO of Lloyds TSB Scotland, where she made history as the first female in Europe to lead a clearing bank. With a background encompassing various leadership roles in both public and private sector organisations, Dame Susan’s expertise in corporate governance is unparalleled.
Her tenure as the founding Chair of the Scottish Fiscal Commission and as President of the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (now named Prosper) underscores her commitment to Scotland’s economic development. Currently serving as the Chair of Scottish Water, Dame Susan will take up her position as Chair of Forth Green Freeport in November, succeeding interim Chair Charles Hammond OBE, Group Chief Executive of Forth Ports.
Commenting on her appointment, Dame Susan expressed her enthusiasm for the role: “The creation of major port infrastructure, the development of new green industries, and the re-industrialization of our communities is hugely compelling to me. I’m honoured to be leading this impressive consortium, and I welcome the opportunity to steer the Forth Green Freeport as we create and implement this transformative initiative.”
Charles Hammond OBE, welcoming Dame Susan Rice to her new role, emphasised the significance of her appointment: “Dame Susan’s extensive experience and enthusiasm perfectly align with the ambitious opportunity that the Forth Green Freeport can deliver for Scotland. Her expertise will play a crucial role in creating well-paid skilled green jobs and assisting in achieving the country’s net zero goals.”
Forth Green Freeport’s visionary bid aims to re-industrialize Scotland, attract global investments, and foster new green technologies and renewable energy manufacturing. The consortium’s proposal encompasses key ports on the Forth, industrial facilities, logistics centres, and Edinburgh Airport, creating an ambitious green investment zone with a broad impact across Scotland. The consortium is currently preparing its Outline Business Case, set to be submitted to the Scottish and UK Governments shortly, unlocking substantial economic benefits and paving the way for a sustainable future.
