Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) is creating a new strategy manager post after securing up to £52,500 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help fund the role.

The appointee will spearhead delivery of the emerging harbour masterplan and outline business case, strengthen organisational capacity, and develop new commercial opportunities.

The move advances WHA's aim to become more commercially focused and attract additional activity to the port, including work linked to offshore wind and the wider renewables sector.

As port strategy manager, the successful candidate will build relationships with existing and potential users, identify investment prospects, and help progress projects that support the harbour's long-term growth.

Wick Harbour is a key regional asset serving fishing, shellfish landings, commercial cargo and energy-related activity. Since 2018, it has also been the main operations and maintenance base for the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm, bringing substantial investment and high-value jobs to the area.

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The new role builds on work supported by HIE and NRS Dounreay to develop a long-term strategic plan for Wick Harbour. It will provide WHA with dedicated capacity to turn proposals into deliverable projects, attract investment and pursue further operations and maintenance and other commercial opportunities.

HIE's area manager for Caithness and Sutherland, Claire Wilson, said: "Wick Harbour is a strategically important asset with real potential to support further economic growth in Caithness and the wider North Highlands.

"Implementing the harbour masterplan requires dedicated commercial capacity and that's what this new role is about. The strategy manager will develop commercially viable projects and engage proactively with potential customers and partners.

"It will help WHA build on Wick's established role in the renewables supply chain, pursue new business and create wider benefits for local companies, workers and communities. I'm very pleased we've been able to provide support and look forward to working with the new manager once they're in post."

Chair of Wick Harbour Authority, Bob Silverwood, said: "This support from HIE is a significant step forward for Wick Harbour. The port strategy manager will give us the focus and expertise to take forward our plans, strengthen our commercial approach and convert future opportunities into practical activity at the harbour.

"Wick has already demonstrated its value as an operations and maintenance base. We now want to build on that track record, diversify activity and ensure the harbour continues to make a strong contribution to the economy of Wick, Caithness and the wider region."

The job advert is now live on the WHA website, with a closing date of 13 November.