POOLE-based Condor Ferries has appointed a new chief executive officer.

Guernsey resident Paul Luxon, currently the Health and Social Services Minister, will take up the post on May 1 next year.

The businessman and politician, who has worked in Jersey and Guernsey for more than 25-years, has served on the boards of many Channel Island businesses.

“Condor Ferries has a long and proud history of serving our islands and I’m looking forward to working with the staff and management team to grow the business through delivering an excellent and reliable service," he said.

"Although 2015 has been a challenging year for the business, there are strong foundations from which to build for the future.

“When I join in May, Condor will be entering the busy summer season, welcoming customers in Jersey, Guernsey, France and the UK, as well as maintaining a seamless freight supply.

"Until then, I will be fully focused on the busy agenda ahead for the Health and Social Services Department and the States of Guernsey and, like many Islanders, will be a Condor customer.”

Currently the chairman of the Jersey Hospitality Association Strategy Group, he is a Guernsey Sports Commissioner and a Chartered Director.

Until 2011, he was managing director of the Channel Islands’ largest food & drink, agency and distribution business, Cimandis, before being elected as a Deputy of the States of Guernsey. He served two years as Public Services Department Minister before taking up his current post as Minister for the Health and Social Services Department.

Russell Kew, executive chairman, said: “With a strong track record in business leadership and deep roots in Channel Island life, Paul will be an outstanding addition to the Condor team. His appointment reaffirms our commitment to working closely with our partners to develop tourism and keep the Channel Islands connected and supplied.”