THE FISHING FAMILY SON WHO BUILT A GLOBAL EMPIRE: SIR IAN WOOD

The fishing family son who built a global empire: Sir Ian Wood

Sir Ian Wood has died at the age of 84.

The legendary businessman – born into an Aberdeen fishing family – died peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones. He took the small business his father built from its fishing roots and grew it into the Wood Group, an international powerhouse that helped turn Aberdeen into Europe’s energy capital.

First Minister John Swinney said the Aberdeen native “helped shape modern Scotland”, while business leader Martin Gilbert noted “no one has contributed more to the north-east”. While public figures mourn the loss of a “titan”, those closest to him remember first and foremost a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Born in 1942 to a fishing family in Aberdeen, Ian Wood stepped up to lead his father’s firm and steered it from its maritime origins into the heart of the North Sea oil and gas boom. At the head of this worldwide enterprise he became one of Scotland’s wealthiest men – placed third on The Times 2026 Rich List with an estimated fortune of nearly £2 billion – yet he remained one of its most generous. He established The Wood Foundation and backed countless good causes around the globe, with a particular focus on education and opportunity for those less fortunate.

He shared 55 years of marriage with Lady Helen, and was a loving father to Nic, Graham and Garreth, and a cherished grandfather to seven grandchildren.

The Wood family paid tribute to the healthcare teams who cared for him in his final days, and said in a statement: “Sir Ian’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the organisations he helped build and the values he championed throughout his life.”

Among those paying tribute, First Minister John Swinney said: “Sir Ian Wood stands as one of Scotland’s most influential business leaders and philanthropists – a man whose vision, determination and generosity have left their mark across the nation and far beyond. Taking a modest family business and turning it into a global energy services leader, he was central to the rise of the North Sea industry and to establishing Scotland as a world centre for energy expertise. His legacy is one of enterprise, leadership and generosity – he truly helped shape modern Scotland.”

Stephen Flynn, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and MSP for Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine, hailed him as “a titan of industry”, adding: “His achievements will be remembered for generations, alongside his enduring love for Aberdeen and his commitment to seeing this city and its people prosper.”

Image by Graham Hobster from Pixabay