New generation takes the helm
ONE of the driving forces behind the development of Gael Force Group retired this month, after 17 years in the company.
John Offord, managing director of Gael Force Engineering, played a pivotal role in the advancement of the SeaMate Feed Barge range, and latterly contributed to the company’s progress in pontoon and breakwater manufacturing.
‘When I joined Gael Force, I was originally drafted in for three months to help start up our engineering division,’ said Offord.
‘Seventeen years later and we are building feed barge number 80, we have just completed the Oban transit berthing facility and have a very healthy enquiry book.
‘I’ve been very lucky with my career choices and have enjoyed the challenges which have come with my time with Gael Force.
‘At the end of the day, how much you enjoy your work or otherwise comes down to people, and there are a lot of very good people at Gael Force.’
Gael Force Group MD Stewart Graham said: ‘I have never met anyone more knowledgeable, resourceful and fearless at taking on a challenge.
‘On more times than I care to remember John has dropped plans at short notice over evenings and weekends to simply do whatever
needed done, always showing great stamina and resilience.
‘Not only will we miss him as a colleague, he will be sorely missed at Gael Force and by the wider Scottish aquaculture industry too.’
Offord will be succeeded by his son, Stephen, Gael Force production director for the past two
years and a Royal Navy engineering officer for 11 years.
John, meanwhile, has set himself new challenges in retirement: ‘I’ve still got 84 of the 282 Munros to complete and next year I’m looking forward to sailing my boat back to Scotland from Palma!’