Finbarr Dowling appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport

Finbarr Dowling, the renowned Siemens executive behind some of the Humber region’s most transformative investments, has been appointed as the new Chair of Humber Freeport. He will formally take up the role in October 2025, following his retirement from Siemens.

Mr Dowling’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment process led by members of the Humber Freeport Board and regional stakeholders. The board unanimously supported his selection, recognising his extensive track record in delivering high-value inward investment and driving regional economic growth.

Over the past 12 years, Mr Dowling has played a pivotal role in spearheading more than £1 billion of Siemens investment in the Humber region. These landmark developments include:

• The Siemens Gamesa offshore wind facility in Hull, developed in partnership with Associated British Ports, which established the Humber as a global leader in offshore wind manufacturing and created over 1,000 jobs.
• The Goole Rail Village, an advanced rail manufacturing hub for Siemens Mobility, currently producing new Tube trains for London and building out facilities for logistics, components, and service. The Goole investment is set to create 1,000 direct jobs and 1,700 supply chain opportunities.

Professor Neal Juster, Acting Chair of Humber Freeport, praised the appointment, saying:

“Finbarr brings exceptional experience, credibility and connections to the role, alongside an unmatched understanding of how to translate regional potential into real-world results. His passion for the Humber is evident, and we are confident he will lead the next phase of the Freeport’s development with energy and purpose.”

Mr Dowling echoed this enthusiasm:

“I’m honoured to be appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport. Having dedicated much of the last decade to delivering investment here, I know just how much this region has to offer. Freeport status opens up even more opportunities to secure high-value investment, foster innovation, and support job creation.”

He also highlighted the evolving economic and political landscape—including the Government’s renewed backing for Freeports and the development of Mayoral Combined Authorities—as key drivers for regional growth.

Humber Freeport is one of 12 designated UK Freeports, offering businesses a powerful mix of tax, planning, customs, and innovation incentives. Its tax sites in Hull, Goole and Immingham, and a customs site in Grimsby, have already attracted more than £1.2bn in pledged investment.

As Chair, Mr Dowling will build on the Freeport’s mission to attract even greater investment, working closely with local authorities, businesses, government, and education providers. He also brings a strong commitment to social value and community engagement, having helped found Hull’s employer-led Ron Dearing UTC.

Professor Juster will remain Acting Chair until October, continuing the leadership he has provided since Simon Bird stepped down earlier this year.

For more information, visit www.humberfreeport.org