Ferguson Marine has announced the appointment of Graeme Thomson as its new chief executive, with the experienced industry leader set to take up the role on 1 May.
Thomson will replace interim boss John Petticrew, who resigned unexpectedly last week for personal reasons. The appointment comes one year after the abrupt dismissal of former CEO David Tydeman.
The Port Glasgow-based shipyard, which is publicly owned, has endured a turbulent decade marked by delays and cost overruns—most notably on its dual-fuel CalMac ferries, Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa.
Thomson joins from Babcock in Rosyth, where he was programme director for the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigate project. He brings more than two decades of leadership experience across shipbuilding, construction, defence and nuclear engineering, with previous roles at Seaspan Shipyards, Lecor, and BAE Systems.
He said he was “excited and enthused” to be joining the team:
“The business and its people have faced challenging times, but we must now focus on delivering key contracts that show we can exceed expectations and build world-class ships on the Clyde. A stronger culture of accountability and governance will help us move on from past issues and restore Ferguson Marine’s reputation.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes welcomed the appointment, saying:
“Mr Thomson brings more than 20 years of international experience in shipbuilding, energy and defence. His leadership will be key in delivering the board’s new commercial strategy and ensuring Glen Rosa is completed as efficiently as possible.”
Ferguson chairman Andrew Miller added:
“Graeme is a trusted and experienced leader with a strong business acumen and an excellent track record in shipbuilding and construction.”
The yard remains under pressure as work continues on Glen Rosa, which was originally expected to be delivered this summer. Delays from prioritising sister ship Glen Sannox mean a further slip in timeline is widely anticipated.
While the yard has no new confirmed ferry orders, sub-contracting work from BAE Systems on Type 26 naval vessels is due to begin in the coming weeks, and the shipyard is actively pursuing private sector opportunities.
