Ferguson shipyard appoints new CEO days after losing CalMac ferry contract

Scotland’s nationalised shipyard Ferguson Marine has appointed a new CEO just days after losing out on the contract for seven new CalMac ferries.

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.

Mr Thomson will take up the position at a pivotal time for the Port Glasgow shipyard.

On Monday, CMAL (Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited) announced it was awarding the contract for the seven electric ferries to a shipbuilding firm in Poland.

The contract was a key part of Ferguson’s five-year recovery strategy following delays and cost overruns in the construction of two much larger ferries for CalMac.

Mr Thomson’s main priority as CEO will be to oversee the delivery of the much-delayed CalMac ferry MV Glen Rosa.

He will also aim to secure a sustainable and long-term future for the yard – which means securing new contracts.

Ferguson Marine said Mr Thomson brings more than 20 years of experience in the shipbuilding, construction and energy sectors, joining from Babcock, an international aerospace, defence and nuclear engineering services business.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

He said Ferguson’s commitment to a better culture based on accountability and robust governance will enable the shipyard to put “past issues behind us, restore the reputation of Ferguson Marine and realise its potential as a leader in global shipbuilding”.

Andrew Miller, chairman of the board at Ferguson Marine, said he was “delighted” to welcome Mr Thomson to the team.

“Graeme joins us at a crucial time for our business and the Board believes he will be instrumental in achieving the goals set out in our strategy and, crucially, will deliver long-term growth for Ferguson Marine,” he said.

Mr Thomson added: “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.”

Deputy first minister Kate Forbes congratulated Mr Thomson on his appointment and said his expertise “will be key” to securing the shipyard’s long term future and to ensuring 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,” Forbes said.

“I look forward to working closely with Mr Thomson as he leads the next phase of the yard’s development.”