Sir Ian Wood ‘helped shape modern Scotland’ says First Minister

Scottish business and political leaders have paid tribute to Sir Ian Wood as one of the country’s most influential businessmen and philanthropists following his death.

The Aberdeen business magnate died peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by family, at the age of 84.

He built a modest family business into a billion-pound empire and also dedicated time and money to the Wood Foundation, a charity to support children and young people across the globe.

In the wake of his death, John Swinney described Sir Ian as one of “Scotland’s most influential business leaders”.

He said: “Through his leadership of Wood Group, he helped transform a modest family business into a global energy services company, playing a pivotal role in the growth of the North Sea oil and gas industry and establishing Scotland as a world-renowned centre of energy expertise.

First Minister John Swinney paid his condolences to Sir Ian Wood's family. — First Minister John Swinney paid his condolences to Sir Ian Wood’s family. STV News

“His devotion to his home city of Aberdeen saw him champion initiatives that have strengthened the North East of Scotland and supported the evolution of the region’s economy through his tireless advocacy for economic development, innovation and opportunity.”

“Sir Ian Wood’s legacy is one of enterprise, leadership and generosity. He has helped shape modern Scotland, strengthened its economy, advanced its energy industry and demonstrated the profound difference that purposeful philanthropy can make.

“I am deeply sorry to hear of his passing, and I want to express my profound sympathy to Sir Ian’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

Martin Gilbert, founder of Aberdeen Asset Management and chairman of Revolut, said: “Sir Ian Wood was a giant of Scottish business.

“I had the privilege of knowing and working with him for more than 40 years, and his extraordinary work ethic, attention to detail and natural charisma always stood out.

“He commanded enormous respect, but he was also incredibly supportive – particularly during the early years of Aberdeen Asset Management, where his guidance and encouragement were invaluable.”

Aberdeen MSP, Stephen Flynn, said Sir Ian was a “titan of industry” and his contributions would be remembered for generations to come.

Stephen Flynn paid tribute to Aberdeen business giant Sir Ian Wood following his death. STV News

Douglas Lumsden, Aberdeen South MP, added: “Scotland has lost a true guiding light of its business community.

“Sir Ian was a champion of everything North East, both as a paragon of its economy but also as a philanthropist who did so much good at home and abroad.

“He and his workers around the world forged an international reputation for excellence in energy.

“The Wood name also meant a helping hand to communities, wherever it went.”

Maggie McGinlay, chief executive of ETZ Ltd, remembered Sir Ian for being “ever curious” about the changing landscape in North Sea energy.

Russell Borthwick, chief executive at Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, said Sir Ian has left a “profound mark” on Aberdeen and the north east of Scotland.

He added: “He was a tireless champion of the North East, always ambitious for its future and unwavering in his belief that it could compete with the very best in the world.

“His legacy will endure in the businesses he built, the institutions he strengthened and the countless lives he touched.”