Steam Packet announces new Leadership Team as ferry operator enters 'new chapter' 

Heads of departments brought together to 'make strategic improvements'

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has announced a new Leadership Team which it says will help guide the ferry operator into a 'new chapter'.

The team, headed up by Managing Director Brian Thomson, will include four key heads of departments.

Three of those positions have been filled by:

• Head of Customer Experience, Seamus Byrne - With a demonstrated history in customer service across maritime, aviation, and banking industries, Seamus brings a wealth of leadership in customer experience to his new role.  He will focus on the strategic development phase of delivering a ‘customer first’ approach, enhancing each aspect of our passenger’s journey and across all areas of the Company. 
    
• Head of Human Resources, Ethel Docherty - A stalwart of IOMSPC, Ethel has been with the Company for an impressive total of 27 years. Initially for five years and then returning for the past 22 years. Prior to returning to the IOMSPC Ethel worked with a number of companies within the Maritime industry here on the Isle of Man. Ethel has a deep understanding of the maritime sector, and has been pivotal in guiding the Company over the years. Ethel will focus on growth and development of staff and attracting local talent to the industry.  
   
• Head of Operations, James Royston - Prior to coming ashore, Jim was a Chief Engineer with the Company and was part of the team involved in converting Manannan. After Manannan entered service, Jim came ashore as Ship Manager and then 6 years ago was promoted to Fleet Operations Manager during which time he was project manager for the design, build and introduction of Manxman. Jim’s focus is on delivering the ‘Operational Excellence’ that underpins all of the past and future success of the Isle of Man’s lifeline service.

Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson says: “I am proud to work with such a talented group of professionals on ensuring we provide an affordable, reliable, and high-quality service that aligns with the needs of our community. Together, we are committed to listening to our customers and making improvements to provide the best service at all touchpoints for our customers.” 

Lars Ugland, Chair of the IOMSPC Board, says: “The Board is confident that this new Leadership Team has the right mix of experience and vision to guide the Company forward. We are excited for the different perspectives and ideas they will bring to the table as we enter this new chapter of growth and development.” 

The remaining position will be filled by the end of the year, the company says.

The Steam Packet says the appointments come at a critical time, as the company continues to 'listen to customer feedback and make strategic improvements, particularly around fares and the customer experience, to secure the long-term prosperity of the island.'

Earlier this month, the ferry operator announced a ‘strategic reset’ of its fare system as part of efforts to make ferry travel 'more affordable, accessible and transparent'.

Among the changes coming in from 24 October, children will travel for free and there will be a ten percent reduction in so-called 'Flexi' fares.

You can find the more details here:  'Strategic reset' of Steam Packet's fare system - Manx Radio