Tuesday, 24 February 2009
NEW NAFC DIRECTOR TALKS OF AREAS OF EXCELLENCE
In his welcoming speech to assembled guests on Friday (20 February), NAFC Marine Centre director, Professor David Gray, spoke of ‘areas of excellence’ at the Centre which he wants to utilise to help bring people and knowledge back into the Shetland economy.
Industry representatives, Shetland Islands Council members and officials, Alastair Carmichael MP and Tavish Scott MSP listened as Professor Gray first explained his attraction to what he classes as his ‘dream job’.
“I grew up in Cornwall surrounded by the sea and the fishing industry”, Professor Gray explained. “I also watched as that fishing industry was decimated and witnessed the effect that had on the community and its economy. It’s from there that my passion for all things marine developed.
“This position as director of the Centre is my dream job. It’s where I can bring together my managerial experience gained from working in universities throughout the world with my marine biology background.
“Shetland and Cornwall are very similar. Both are surrounded by the sea and their economies are largely focused on the marine industry.
“Before I came here for my interview, I hadn’t really heard of the NAFC Marine Centre. But, when I arrived, I was blown away by the resource you have here. The quality, commitment and dedication of the staff and the first class equipment at the Centre are hidden gems.
“We want to get the message out there that Shetland is a leader in marine science and technology, and in marine spatial planning. We have pockets of excellence that we want to make the most of to bring people and knowledge back into the local economy.”
Professor Gray continued by explaining that the Centre is here for everyone involved in any way in the marine sector. He said: “Our relationship with you is crucial. It is already a good one but we want to make it even better. We would like to help in the decisions you make about the future of the maritime industries.”
Concluding, Professor Gray had a few final thoughts. “First – be very proud of what you have here, both the Centre and Shetland as a whole. Second – we are here to work with you and support you. Please talk to us if there is something you’d like our help with or advice on. Finally, we are here to help get Shetland on the map and move it forward to get more money into the economy. We are here first and foremost for you.”
Further information:
For further information, please contact: Professor David Gray, NAFC Marine Centre, tel 01595 772000, email david.gray@nafc.uhi.ac.uk or visit www.nafc.ac.uk
Or, Louise Rosie, Shaw Marketing and Design Ltd, tel 01595 692465, email louise.rosie@shaw-online.com or visit www.shaw-online.com