MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands contracts expert in the delivery of capital investment programs

Bassford is currently a director for global advisory firm, RAND, working on projects across maritime, aerospace, defense and environmental sectors.

The Falkland Islands Government announced the appointment of Matt Bassford as the new Director of Central Services, succeeding Simon Fletcher who leaves the Islands this August.

 Mr Bassford, who holds a PhD in Environmental Chemistry as well as an MBA from Imperial College London, is currently a director for global advisory firm, RAND, working on projects across maritime, aerospace, defense and environmental sectors.

He has previously worked for the Ministry of Defense and the Cabinet Office and has extensive experience in the delivery of capital investment programs.

Of his appointment, Matt said, ‘I have always been driven by a desire to make a positive difference to the public good. I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life and the opportunity to play a leading role in the delivery of key services for the Falkland Islands. My family are also excited and have been struck by the beauty of the Islands they saw in a recent photo exhibition.’

Following a brief familiarization visit in November 2014, Matt will formally take up his position in January 2015, accompanied by his wife, Colette, and his two children Maya and Anna.

Keith Padgett, Falklands' Chief Executive, welcomed the appointment, ‘I am delighted with Matt’s appointment as DCS. He has wealth of varied expertise which will undoubtedly be an asset to both the Directorate and to FIG as a whole, and I am very much looking forward to working with him in the New Year.’

Portfolio-holder for Central Services, MLA Ian Hansen, echoed the Chief Executive, ‘Matt Bassford will be an excellent addition to the FIG team and with his past experience I’m sure he will be able to build on the work of Central Services carried out to date. I look forward to working alongside him when he takes up post, and would like to thank his predecessor, Simon Fletcher, for all his hard work during his tenure as DCS.’