Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) has announced the appointment of Kevin Holland as chief executive; he replaces Alastair Hamilton, who is stepping down after 10 years in the post.

Announcing the appointment, Invest NI (www.investni.com) chairman Rose Mary Stalker said: “I am delighted that Invest NI has secured Kevin as its next chief executive.

“He is an experienced global business leader, with more than 25 years of international expertise, leading and advising business growth and investment in over 50 countries.

“Kevin will ensure that Invest NI continues to build on the strong progress made under Alastair’s leadership.

“On behalf of the Board of Invest NI — both current and previous — I would like to thank Alastair for the dedication, commitment and focus that he has provided to Invest NI and for his wider contribution to advancing the Northern Ireland economy over the past 10 years.”

Mr Holland officially joined Invest NI on 21 October and will take full responsibility as CEO in November.