Steam Packet announces new leadership team as ferry operator enters ‘new chapter’

Department heads meet to ‘make strategic improvements’

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has announced a new leadership team that it says will help guide the ferry operator into a “new chapter”.

The team, led by Managing Director Brian Thomson, will include four key department heads.

Three of these positions were filled by:

• Head of Customer Experience, Seamus Byrne – With a proven track record in customer service across the maritime, aviation and banking sectors, Seamus brings a wealth of customer experience leadership to his new role. He will focus on the strategic development phase of delivering a “customer first” approach, improving every aspect of our passengers’ journey and across all areas of the Company.

• Head of Human Resources, Ethel Docherty An IOMSPC stalwart, Ethel has been with the company for an impressive total of 27 years. Initially for five years and then returning for the last 22 years. Before returning to IOMSPC, Ethel worked with a number of companies in the maritime sector here on the Isle of Man. Ethel has a deep understanding of the maritime sector and has been instrumental in guiding the Company over the years. Ethel will focus on employee growth and development and attracting local talent to the industry.

• Head of Operations, James Royston- Before landing, Jim was the company’s chief engineer and was part of the team involved in the Manannan conversion. After Manannan entered service, Jim came ashore as the ship’s manager and later 6 years ago he was promoted to Fleet Operations Manager, during which time he was project manager for the design, construction and introduction of the Manxman. Jim’s focus is on delivering the ‘Operational Excellence’ that underpins all the past and future success of the Isle of Man’s vital service.

Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson said: “I’m proud to work with such a talented group of professionals to ensure we provide an affordable, reliable and high-quality service that aligns with the needs of our community. Together, we are committed to listening to our customers and making improvements to provide the best service at every touchpoint for our customers.”

Lars Ugland, Chairman of the IOMSPC Board, states: “The Board is confident that this new Leadership Team has the right mix of experience and vision to guide the Company forward. We are excited about the different perspectives and ideas they will bring as we enter this new chapter of growth and development.”

The remaining vacancies will be filled by the end of the year, the company says.

Steam Packet says the appointments come at a critical time as the company continues to “listen to customer feedback and make strategic improvements, especially around rates and customer experience, to ensure the long-term prosperity of the island”.

Earlier this month, the ferry operator announced a “strategic reset” of its fare system as part of efforts to make ferry travel “more affordable, accessible and transparent”.

Among the changes that will take place from October 24th, children will travel free and there will be a ten percent reduction in so-called ‘Flexi’ fares.

You can find more details here: Steam Packet fare system ‘strategic reset’ – Manx Radio