Public appointment: Non-Executive Director reappointed to the David MacBrayne Limited Board

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

Member 

David Beaton was born and raised in Sutherland and has lived in the Isle of Skye for the last 35 years apart from a short spell in the United States where he was a Managing Director for Stagecoach owned companies. Mr Beaton has a wealth of experience in public transport having been involved in the sector since 1988 and brings direct knowledge and a lived experience of the key issues affecting rural and island communities. David is also Chair of the local Royal National Lifeboat Institution fundraising committee. 

Reappointment 

This reappointment will be for three years and will run from 19 June 2026 to 18 June 2029. 

This reappointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner. 

Remuneration 

This reappointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration off £320.00 per day for a time commitment of three days per month. 

Other ministerial appointments 

David Beaton 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.    

David Beaton 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