Following this period a permanent position was offered in March 1992 as Commercial Manager and he was promoted to Chief Financial Officer in 2006. His role includes responsibility for overseeing the finance, accounting, commercial and marketing functions and contributing to general management and strategy.

He has been involved with planning and delivering infrastructure investment exceeding £100m to ensure the business meets the evolving needs of its users and maximizes its contribution to the local economy and stakeholders.

Personal interests include tending an extensive collection of cacti and succulent plants, gardening, coastal walks and involvement in local church.  Stephen is married with two children and has always resided in the north east of Scotland.