Public appointment: Member reappointed to David MacBrayne Limited Board

The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, Stephen Flynn MSP, today announced the reappointment of Kay Ryan as a Non-Executive Director of the David MacBrayne Limited Board. 

 

Member 

Kay Ryan has held several senior commercial roles, latterly as Special Advisor to the Board of Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline where she previously held the position of Chief Commercial Officer. Kay has led complex marketing, communication and commercial change projects and is a specialist in revenue and yield management across Aviation, Tour Operating and Hospitality. She has led and managed contract negotiations with both national government and local councils involving significant contribution to vital transport links within the United Kingdom. 

 

Reappointment 

This reappointment will be for 3 years and will run from 1 December 2026 to 30 November 2029. 

This reappointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner. 

 

Remuneration 

This reappointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £320 per day for a time commitment of 36 days per year. 

 

Other ministerial appointments 

Kay Ryan does not hold any other public appointments. 

 

Political activity  

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.    

Kay Ryan has had no political activity within the last five years.  

 

Background 

With over 170 years’ experience, DML is one of Scotland’s longest continually running businesses.  It is wholly owned by Scottish Ministers and is a key component of our transport network, providing essential ferry connectivity to our islands and remote communities.  DML employs around 2100 people with an annual turnover of approximately £328 million.  It transports more than five million passengers annually and operates 26 ports within the UK.   

DML’s largest subsidiary company is CalMac Ferries Limited (CFL).  CFL is the UK’s largest ferry operator in terms of ships and destinations served and one of the largest transport operators in Scotland. It provides vital, essential services and logistical support to island and remote communities. Representing a key commitment by Scottish Ministers to deliver reliable, resilient, and customer-focused ferry services that meet the needs of the people of Scotland.