A top civil servant is to leave government for the private sector.

Randy Rochester has been appointed to replace Warren Jones as the next chief executive of Polaris Holding Company Ltd.

The senior civil servant has worked as the permanent secretary of several government ministries over the past 12 years, including Tourism and Transport, Home Affairs and, more recently, Public Works.

Cheryl Hayward-Chew, chair of the Polaris Board said: “Mr Rochester is a perfect fit for Polaris. He has vast experience ranging back to his days as the assistant director for the Public Transportation Board as well as director of TCD within the Ministry of Transport.

“More recently, having oversight for the Ministry of Public Works that has responsibility for the government quarry among many other high-profile departments.

“In his previous capacity, within the Ministries of Economic Development and Home Affairs, he worked with international business and immigration reform.

“He has knowledge of, and relationships with, the respective trade unions, and has an impeccable reputation".

Mr Rochester commented: “I am looking forward to the experiences ahead. Polaris plays a critical role in the sustenance of our Island and over the years, it has proved that notwithstanding any obstacles, it can deliver. I have often noted their credo to ‘do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reasons’ and it will be my intent to ensure that continues.

“I appreciate the board’s faith in me and look forward to working with the board, staff and stakeholders to move Polaris forward.”

Mrs Hayward-Chew noted that Mr Rochester’s official start date will be in August, ensuring a smooth transition leading up to Mr Jones’s retirement in October.

As parent company to Stevedoring Services Ltd., the operator of Hamilton docks, Polaris is responsible for more than 30,000 container moves per year, including everything from goods to groceries to vehicles and materials.