Sonar leader appoints Scot to international sales role

WASSP has announced the expansion of its senior management team with the appointment of Ian McDonald as general manager.

Based in Auckland, WASSP is a world leader in multibeam sonar technology, using wide sonar coverage to enable users to map the seafloor and see detailed information in the water column.

WASSP chief executive Gareth Hodson says the role of general manager is a newly created position and will see McDonald overseeing WASSP's international sales and marketing strategy.

Originally from Glasgow, McDonald is experienced in the marine and offshore sectors and has worked with over 300 technology and life science companies and research institutions in the UK and around the world.

He also holds a BSc in Technology & Business Studies from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, as well as an MBA from the Imperial College, London, with a specialisation in the management of innovation.

More recently, McDonald was vice-president of corporate development for Foster Moore, a specialist developer of electronic registries for legislative and governmental agencies. He developed and executed Foster Moore's business and market development plans, particularly in offshore markets. He was also chief executive of Connect NZ from 2004-2007.

Hodson says McDonald's appointment will further strengthen WASSP's position as the market leader in multibeam sonar technology. "His proven track record in transforming exceptional technology into outstanding business makes him the perfect fit for WASSP.

"We expect Ian to offer a professional and considered approach to our international sales marketing plans. I am confident he has the passion, energy and experience to drive WASSP's global business forward."

Next week, McDonald will showcase WASSP's technology at the Europort maritime exhibition in Rotterdam before moving to the METS trade show in Amsterdam.