GREENOCK based bus firm McGill's has announced a key operational appointment and highlighted opportunities on offer for career progression.

Bosses at the UK’s largest independent bus operator, which is owned by local billionaire businessman Sandy and James Easdale, say they are seeking to attract new talent to the company.

In their latest appointment, Ewan Gray has been promoted to depot operations manager at McGill’s Inchinnan depot in Renfrewshire.

The 32-year-old started in the sector at the age of 17 working late shifts as a shunter and cleaner for an independent bus company in Lanarkshire.

Through various roles at bus companies in the west of Scotland, he gained his PCV licence, becoming a lead driver and then subsequently working in depot operations and forward roster and duty planning for more than 700 drivers.

Joining McGill’s in October 2022, he started as an allocations manager before obtaining promotion to depot operations boss at Inchinnan at the start of 2024.

As a bus enthusiast, Ewan was keen to work in the sector but said the opportunities for progression were something that he was less well aware of when he started more in the industry in 2008.

He said: “My new role is something very important to me and having had an input in every side of the bus industry through my career, I feel I’m well-placed to work with my great colleagues and the travelling public to continually enhance McGill’s Group’s offering.

“It is a very exciting time to be in this industry, with changes such as electric vehicles and company expansion meaning there are lots of opportunities to gain new experiences and learn new skills.

“McGill’s intercity tie-up with international coach network, Flixbus, operates from our 24/7 Inchinnan depot and that is great to be involved in and ensures great variety in my work.

"I would recommend this sector and McGill’s to anyone who has aspirations to make a great career and take a path similar to myself.”

Alex Hornby, group managing director at McGill’s, said: “Our congratulations go to Ewan on his promotion to his new role at Inchinnan.

"He has been a committed and loyal member of our team since he joined McGill’s in 2022 and his knowledge and enthusiasm means he is a real asset to the company and a great leader to our people.

“Ewan typifies what can be achieved with the opportunities that are available at McGill’s and within the wider sector.

"He has worked hard to further his skills over the past 16 years but has also been aided by the chance to take part in training, typified by the support from those around him and what we offer new colleagues through our in-house McGill’s Academy.

"No matter your existing skillset, we are keen for people to engage with us and see if a role at McGill’s would suit your future ambitions.”