First Minister John Swinney paid tribute to Sir Ian, describing him as one of Scotland’s “most influential business leaders and philanthropists, a figure whose vision, determination and generosity have left a lasting mark on the nation and far beyond.”
He said: “Through his leadership of Wood Group, he helped transform a modest family business into a global energy services company, playing a pivotal role in the growth of the North Sea oil and gas industry and establishing Scotland as a world-renowned centre of energy expertise.
He paid tribute to Sir Ian’s “devotion” to his home city of Aberdeen, adding the businessman had championed “initiatives that have strengthened the North East of Scotland and supported the evolution of the region’s economy through his tireless advocacy for economic development, innovation and opportunity.”
Swinney also praised his work on the transition to a lower-carbon future, and his philanthropic work.
“Sir Ian Wood’s legacy is one of enterprise, leadership and generosity. He has helped shape modern Scotland, strengthened its economy, advanced its energy industry and demonstrated the profound difference that purposeful philanthropy can make,” he said.
Scottish Conservative MP for Aberdeen South, Douglas Lumsden, said:
“Scotland has lost a true guiding light of its business community. Sir Ian was a champion of everything North East, both as a paragon of its economy but also as a philanthropist who did so much good at home and abroad.
“He and his workers around the world forged an international reputation for excellence in energy.
“The Wood name also meant a helping hand to communities, wherever it went.”
