New Ferguson Marine CEO Graeme Thomson begins work
The state-owned ship yard has adopted a five-year recovery strategy following delays and cost overruns in the construction of two large ferries for CalMac.
The first, MV Glen Sannox, was finally delivered for service to and from Arran earlier this year, operating from Troon rather than Ardrossan as the harbour in the latter is unable to accommodate the vessel.
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A second ferry, MV Glen Rosa, is also late and over-budget, with delivery planned for September, more than seven years overdue.
Ferguson Marine said its immediate priority under Mr Thomson's leadership is the build and delivery of MV Glen Rosa along with its efforts to secure work for the shipyard and modernise its infrastructure and equipment.
In March it was announced that a contract to build seven small electric ferries for CalMac had been awarded to Polish-based Remontowa Shipbuilding following a tender process.
Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: 'It is a real privilege to officially join Ferguson Marine as Chief Executive Officer. The yard has a proud history and legacy, and its people are central to its future success. Over the coming months, I look forward to spending more time with colleagues across the business to see what we can do jointly to make things better for Ferguson Marine and, most importantly, secure some new opportunities.
'I've already been really impressed by the overwhelming sense of community here and the passion people speak with – it's a great yard, in a great site and with a great local community supporting it. We just need to turn it into success.'
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