Ferguson Marine appoints maritime commercial expert Mark Preston to Board to drive growth strategy

Former LSE-listing executive brings 40+ years of global experience to support the delivery of MV Glen Rosa and future pipeline.

Ferguson Marine today announces that it has brought world-class commercial and business development expertise into its leadership team with the appointment of Mark Preston as a Non-Executive Director to the Board.

Mark Preston has more than four decades of global marine sector experience in senior commercial and business development roles bringing key expertise in shipbroking, offshore renewables and modifying and repurposing existing vessels. His track record includes growing a company's turnover from $27 million to $110 million and managing a major and successful listing on the London Stock Exchange.

News of the post follows the promotion of existing board member Duncan Anderson to Chair of the Board in February 2026, after serving as Interim-Chair since October 2025.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy Stephen Flynn said:

"Mark brings exactly the kind of depth in commercial and international experience that Ferguson Marine needs at this stage of its development. His expertise in global markets and scaling businesses will be a real asset to the board and to Scotland's shipbuilding industry."

Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: 

“Mark will play a pivotal role in the modernisation journey we are on from a commercial standpoint and his success in scaling maritime businesses will be vital in supporting a thriving and robust future for Ferguson Marine.”

Mark Preston’s term will begin on 30 June 2026 and run until 31 May 2028. The appointment was made following a robust, open and independent recruitment process. 

Mark Preston, Non-Executive Director to the Board at Ferguson Marine, said:

"Ferguson Marine has a proud heritage and a highly skilled workforce. There is a clear opportunity to build on the strong progress already made and further strengthen the yard's ability to win work. I look forward to working with the team to support the delivery of existing and upcoming work, securing new opportunities and helping to ensure a sustainable long-term future for Scottish shipbuilding and Ferguson Marine."

Mark will play a key role in supporting the delivery of Ferguson Marine’s strategic aims and objectives, including the delivery of MV Glen Rosa and BAE systems contracts, securing a pipeline of work for the shipyard and eventually returning the business to private ownership.