Greenock-based McGill’s Group has announced two significant senior appointments, including the former boss of ferry operator CalMac.

Tony Williamson becomes chief executive officer and Robbie Drummond is the new finance director and company secretary.

Ralph Roberts, current chief executive, has been appointed group chairman, assuming the role from co-owner James Easdale who remains as a director alongside his brother, Sandy.

Mr Williamson has worked in public transport for nearly 40 years. Over the last decade he has worked in Asia and South America across a number of chief executive roles following 17 years in managing director positions with Arriva Group.

With a reputation for driving business growth and delivering results, Tony’s impressive track record includes spearheading several successful business transitions, transforming organisations, and driving profitable growth.

His industry insights are highly respected and sought after, and he is a regular speaker at transport sector conferences and events. He has also served on several transportation industry boards, providing expertise and leadership to drive the industry forward.

Mr Drummond is a chartered accountant who in recent years has led and transformed transport and logistics businesses. After spells at various financial firms, he was appointed group finance director for CalMac and, after delivering a successful bid and subsequent transformation programme, he was promoted to managing director and chief executive with responsibility for leading a complex and safety-critical business delivering public transport services across large geographies with millions of customers.

McGill’s Group, the UK’s largest independent bus operator, said the appointments would strengthen the business for the next phase of its growth plans.

In recent years, the company has expanded considerably from Inverclyde and Glasgow into the rest of Scotland, firstly with the acquisition of Xplore Dundee from National Express and then the purchase of First Scotland East and Bright Bus Tours almost two years ago.

The company has also developed a hugely successful partnership with FlixBus, the international intercity coach operator, serving destinations around Scotland and the rest of the UK, whilst Loch Lomond Travel – the group’s coach holiday arm – has enjoyed exceptionally high demand since its launch in February this year.

This has also been accompanied by substantial investment in modern vehicles, particularly its zero emission, electric buses, with more than 100 in the group fleet. Earlier this month, McGill’s Group was shortlisted for an impressive three awards at the prestigious UK National Transport Awards 2024, including UK Bus Operator of the Year.

James Easdale, co-owner and director, said: “This is a significant strengthening of our team and one that we have committed fresh resources to in order to attract Tony and Robbie to the business.

“We now have a wider leadership group and Ralph is looking forward to devoting more time towards our growth plans as chairman, and as I move away from that role, it will allow me flexibility in addressing key projects within the McGill’s business and within my wider family investments alongside my brother Sandy.”

Mr Roberts said: “We are thrilled to welcome Tony and Robbie to the business and it is a real coup for McGill’s Group to be able to attract two leaders of their calibre to join with us.

“Both Tony and Robbie have extensive experience within the national and international transport and finance sectors, and this will enhance our ability to grow our business sustainably, whilst identifying new and interesting markets for further business development.

“I’m pleased to be moving into the chairmanship role which will offer more strategic support to the business. The day-to-day control of our group company will now be transferred to Tony and Robbie and whilst supporting future business development, it will also provide co-owner James Easdale time to concentrate on the family’s land and property portfolio although both he and Sandy will continue to have very significant input in their roles as directors.”

Mr Williamson said: “After many years working internationally as a transformational specialist, I’m delighted to be returning to Scotland as chief executive of McGill’s Group. I have known Ralph, Sandy and James for many years and relish the opportunity to work with them again. We are facing challenges in our industry which will require serious action to ensure the best value for the customer and the public purse is a priority.

“I am well aware of the desire of some governmental bodies to gain greater control over bus services, but they must be aware of the substantial risks and costs to the public. Having considerable experience of both public and private bus operations, including franchised operations, it is clear that we need to work with decision-makers to understand the risks and implications that this may hold for the people of Scotland. My challenge is to continue to build on the strong foundation that has been laid in the quality of service provided by McGill’s Group and to ensure we are well equipped to handle whatever public policy challenges lie ahead.”

Mr Drummond said: “The bus industry is facing change and McGill’s wants to continue working with local partners to ensure the highest quality provision for passengers. I know from my time in the transport sector that McGill’s has invested heavily to grow from a regional business to become a major operator in the UK and I look forward to working with the owners, Ralph, Tony and the senior team to enable best performance, deliver strong governance and ensure future success for the years ahead.”

McGill’s Group