Pete Bevington

16 May, 2007

THE FIRST female chief executive of a British harbour took the helm at Lerwick Port Authority yesterday (Tuesday).

Sandra Laurenson has worked for the port authority for more than 30 years and became its first deputy chief executive in 1999 when the post was created. She is also a director of fish processors Shetland Catch and Shetland Seafood Auctions.

She takes over from Allan Wishart who brought his retirement forward from July after being elected to Shetland Islands Council for the Lerwick North ward on 3 May.

Victor Sandison has been promoted to deputy chief executive from his post as administration manager, which held since joining the port authority in 2001 after working in banking and Shetland Islands Council.

The senior management team is completed by Captain Calum Grains who was promoted to harbourmaster in January this year.

Last night Ms Laurenson said she was looking forward to her job and would be building on the solid foundations laid by her predecessor.

She said she was surprised to learn that she was the first woman to run a British port, but felt that more equality was creeping into harbour circles.

"Going to port industry events I have noticed there are never many women or young people there, but that does seem to be changing now," she said. "Personally I have never seen gender as an issue in this type of job. It should not have any influence."

Mr Wishart joined the port authority in 1985 as assistant to the general manager when it was Shetland Harbour Trust. He became general manager in 1991, after which his job titled was changed to chief executive.

Port authority chairman Leonard Groat said: "Allan Wishart has made a tremendous contribution to the successful operation and development of the port during a key period for the harbour and the Shetland economy.

"The new senior management team provides considerable experience and drive, and the board is confident they will deliver further development and activity, to the continuing benefit of the islands."