Sir Ian Wood KT GBE

It is with great sadness that we share that Sir Ian Wood, the founding Chairman of Energy Transition Zone Ltd, has died peacefully at home in Aberdeen, surrounded by his family.

Statement from Trevor Garlick, Acting Chair Energy Transition Zone Ltd

“I first met Sir Ian when at bp, and Wood Group was our major supplier. What stood out then and remained true throughout his career, was his belief in the power and value of the supply chain, and in the critical relationship between operators and the companies that support them.

Sir Ian understood that the North East supply chain was not simply there to serve the industry but was one of the region’s great strengths in its own right: a source of innovation, skills, exports and long-term economic opportunity. He worked consistently to ensure that supply chain companies had a strong voice as the North Sea developed and as its future role for renewable energy was being considered.

That belief carried through his work on the Wood Review, the creation of the Oil and Gas Authority and, later, the establishment of Energy Transition Zone Ltd. His legacy is not only in the global company he built, but in the confidence he gave this region to keep adapting, investing in its people, industries and future.”

Statement from Maggie McGinlay, Chief Executive Energy Transition Zone Ltd

"The legacy of Sir Ian Wood's journey from a small family business to a global energy company remains visible throughout North East Scotland, reflected in the hundreds of innovative and entrepreneurial energy supply chain companies that thrive here today.

When Sir Ian stepped down as Chairman of Wood more than 14 years ago, he could have been forgiven for taking a well-earned break. Instead, his focus shifted to economic development, philanthropy and a key question - what next for energy? He was curious about new, emerging markets, and wanted to understand where they could bring opportunity and growth for North East Scotland’s energy sector and importantly the supply chain that he so passionately championed. And it was this leadership and vision that led to the establishment of Energy Transition Zone Ltd (ETZ Ltd) in 2021.

I had the privilege to work with Sir Ian for well over a decade – when he was Chair of Opportunity North East and then also of ETZ Ltd. Three things stood out for me. His desire to be ever curious; to explore opportunities in emerging markets such as digital tech and renewable energy and drive action to unlock potential for North East Scotland. His desire to get things done, to make a difference. It was never about talking strategy; it was always about taking positive action. And his unquestionable commitment to North East Scotland. He wanted to see this region thrive for future generations and was prepared to invest his own money as well as his time and his leadership to achieve that ambition.

For someone of Sir Ian's stature, no individual can fill the space he leaves behind. Instead, the responsibility rests with us to continue his legacy through the power of partnership, the focus on delivery and through valuing what, in Sir Ian’s own words, is this region’s greatest asset: its people’’.

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