Britain's Energy Coast will have a new boss by the end of the month.

Michael Pemberton will take up the post of chief executive.

He will move from his current role as programmes director when Steven Szostak steps down as managing director.

Mr Pemberton will develop a strategy to ensure a secure and financially sustainable future for Britain's Energy Coast to deliver long-lasting regeneration into West Cumbria.

Mr Szostak's time in his role has seen significant milestones in the company's development.

They have included the organisation's flagship LinkStart course entering its 20th year, and kick starting the regeneration of Whitehaven's former bus station.

After completing his planned three-year stint at the helm of Britain's Energy Coast, he is looking forward to re-establishing his consultancy firm, SSA Project Management.

Mr Szostak said: “I am pleased to have had the opportunity to bring my regeneration experience into Britain’s Energy Coast, and to play an integral role at a company bringing significant benefit for the community.

"I am very proud of what has been achieved over the last three years and am confident that Michael will take the company in the right direction.

"When I took up the post at BEC in 2012 I was confident it would be the right role to see me through to my retirement from salaried work and I am now looking forward to taking up commissions across Cumbria and Lancashire with my consultancy.”

The leadership changeover is due to be officially ratified at a board meeting next Wednesday, November 18.

Mr Szostak's last day will be next Friday, November 20.

Chairman Nigel Catterson said: “The Britain’s Energy Coast board and team are grateful for Steven’s contributions since he joined in 2012 and we wish him luck for the future.

“The board has every faith and confidence in Michael’s leadership and his vision of what BEC can achieve.

“Under Michael’s stewardship we are developing a very clear vision and purpose for the future of BEC with plans to unveil this early in 2016.”

Mr Pemberton joined Britain's Energy Coast in June 2015.

He said: “BEC is an organisation with a great team, a strong heritage and a track record of delivering outstanding regeneration in the county.

"However, with the world changing around us, now is an opportune time for us to review our organisation and ensure we are delivering the best results possible for the communities we serve, with the best use of our resource.

"Our mission is simple: To support excellence in economic development across West Cumbria.

"We will be the chosen economic regeneration partner – financially sustainable and self-sufficient.

"This vision will be achieved by developing a robust strategy backed up by a clear implementation plan.”