Barrow-in-Furness international marine engineering company James Fisher and Sons plc announced that its finance director Stuart Kilpatrick will leave the firm next month.

“James Fisher and Sons plc … announces that, after more than ten years’ service, Stuart Kilpatrick, group finance director, has informed the board of his intention to step down from the board on 29 April 2021, which is the date of the AGM,” said the firm in a stock exchange statement.

“The board is commencing a search for his successor and Stuart will support an orderly transition.”

James Fisher chairman Malcolm Paul said: “On behalf of the board I would like to thank Stuart for his dedication and exceptional service to James Fisher.

“Stuart has made an outstanding contribution to the strategic development and financial management of the group.”

 Kilpatrick said: “It has been a great privilege to have played a part in the development of James Fisher and to work with some outstanding people over the last ten years.

“I consider it time now for a new challenge and I wish my colleagues the best for the future.”