SCOTTISH Government-owned shipyard Ferguson Marine has appointed a new chief executive officer.
Babcock executive Graeme Thomson will take on the role from May 1, following the departure of interim head John Petticrew for “personal reasons” earlier this month.
Thomson was a programme director for Babcock and oversaw the delivery of the Type 31 Royal Navy frigate programme.
In a statement, he said: “I’m thoroughly excited and enthused to be taking on the role as chief executive officer of Ferguson Marine, a cornerstone of Scotland’s rich maritime history and an important employer in Inverclyde.
“The business, and its people, have faced challenging times but as we look forward we must focus on delivering key contracts that demonstrate our capability to exceed expectations and build world-class ships on the Clyde.
“This, and our commitment to build a better culture based on accountability and robust governance, will enable us to put past issues behind us, restore the reputation of Ferguson Marine and realise its potential as a leader in global shipbuilding.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know the team better and working together to modernise the yard, and get it fit for the future so we can face up to the demands of the shipbuilding market for years to come.”
Commenting on the announcement, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “I’d like to congratulate Graeme Thomson on his appointment as new CEO of Ferguson Marine.
“Mr Thomson brings over 20 years of international leadership experience in shipbuilding, energy and defence sectors. That expertise will be key as he leads the work to deliver the Board’s new commercial strategy, secure the yard’s long-term future and ensure the Glen Rosa is delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“The Scottish Government is fully committed to Ferguson Marine and the future of Scotland’s shipbuilding industry. I look forward to working closely with Mr Thomson as he leads the next phase of the yard’s development.”
The appointment comes just days after Cmal announced the preferred bidder to build seven new small ferries for the west coast network is Polish firm Remontowa rather than the Scottish Government-owned Ferguson Marine.
Ministers assessed the possibility of a direct award for the ships, but deemed it too risky due to the potential for the move to end up in the courts.
