Gavin Morgan

22 August, 2008

SHETLAND’S NAFC Marine Centre has finally appointed a new permanent director after a search lasting five months.

Professor David Gray, a marine biologist and Dean of Faculty at the University of Derby in Buxton, described his new post as his “dream job”, but will not start until December.

Professor Gray has worked in South Africa, Hong Kong and the Falklands and in 2007 was awarded a personal professorial chair by his university in recognition of his academic leadership and international reputation in education.

NAFC interim director Tony Hawkins said having a director of Mr Gray’s stature and experience will strengthen their position as a leading provider of training, research and advice for all aspects of the marine industry.

Professor Gray said that he needs to get “his feet under the table” and talk to local industry representatives before he can say what direction he will take the centre in.

But he said he wants the NAFC to be “a partnership between the industry and the local community and make sure what we are doing and contributing is what Shetland as a community wants.”

Mr Gray added that though he would not be starting the job until the end of the year he will be spending time at the centre beforehand to meet people and familiarise himself with the position so he can “hit the ground running”.

He said he would be glad to get back to more direct involvement in marine biology after his career had taken moved towards academic management, adding that his family were all very excited about the move.

“I believe that Shetland will be the perfect location to bring up our family. We also look forward to enjoying the islands’ fantastic wildlife and environment and greatly appreciate the low crime rate,” Mr Gray said.

Iris Hawkins, chair of the NAFC, said: “I am pleased that Professor Gray has the experience and understands the importance of education and training to local communities and local businesses.

“He will be able to help us ensure that our training programmes are well matched to local needs. His research background in marine biology fits in with our own scientific programme which is tailored to the needs of the fishing and aquaculture industries.”

The NAFC have been looking for a full time director since March when Peter Dryburgh stepped down after four years in the position to move to the mainland.