NESCol pays tribute to Sir Ian Wood

July 27, 2026

North East Scotland College has joined the tributes to global business leader and philanthropist Sir Ian Wood, following the Aberdonian’s death at the age of 84.

Neil Cowie, NESCol Principal and Chief Executive, said: “On behalf of the College community, I share our sincere condolences with Sir Ian’s family and all of those closest to him. His loss will be felt deeply across business, civic and community life in the region that he has so passionately championed.

“Sir Ian worked with great determination, vision and innovation to help shape the North East as we know it. His commitment to ensuring a bright and prosperous future for the area and its people, particularly through Opportunity North East and ETZ Ltd, has created a valuable legacy.

“Sir Ian has been a great supporter of NESCol and our institution’s aims. He spoke of those shared ambitions at the launch of our new Energy Transition Skills Hub in Aberdeen last year, a project led by ETZ and shaped by Sir Ian’s belief in creating opportunities for all. Sir Ian’s reach stretched far beyond the business realm, with the Wood Foundation playing a key role in educational and social projects worldwide, and the impact of his work and generosity will be felt for generations to come.”