The CEO of Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) is stepping down with immediate effect, it has been announced.
The UK’s largest ferry operator said that after it “reviewed the executive leadership of the organisation” it agreed that Robbie Drummond would resign as chief executive.
It comes just eight days after the chief executive of Ferguson Marine, where the two delayed and over-budget CalMac ferries are being built, was sacked.
David Tydeman’s contract was terminated by the state-owned company’s board after telling ministers further delays were “likely”.
“The CalMac board takes the responsibility of delivering the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service (CHFS) contract extremely seriously,” a spokesperson said.
“It recognises, that the island communities served by CalMac have faced real challenges over this past year.
“These challenges are likely set to continue until new vessels are introduced to the fleet over the coming years.
“In this context, the board wants to strengthen the focus further on operational performance of an ageing fleet, resilience and enhanced dialogue and responsiveness with the customers and the communities CalMac serves.
“As a consequence, the board has reviewed the executive leadership of the organisation to ensure that it is best placed to achieve that during some challenging years ahead.
“As part of that review, current CEO Robbie Drummond is stepping down with immediate effect.”
Duncan Mackison, the former chief executive officer of CalMac holding company David MacBrayne Ltd, has been appointed interim CEO until a permanent successor is appointed.
Drummond was previously managing director of CalMac before becoming its chief executive in October 2022.
“The board thanks Robbie for his efforts and wishes Robbie well in his future endeavours,” the spokesperson said.
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
