Mairi Prior

The company this week announced changes to its leadership following the death of its CEO and co-founder, Frank Strang.

Scott Hammond, previously deputy CEO, has stepped into the role of CEO and will lead the company as it prepares to host a first test flight by rocket company RFA from the site at Lamba Ness in Unst, Shetland. 

Debbie Strang, Saxa’s chief operating officer, will take over Mr Hammond’s role as deputy CEO.

Ms Prior, previously chief financial officer, has been appointed to the board as finance director.

Commenting on the leadership changes, Mr Hammond said: “Of course these are not the circumstances in which I would wish to be taking over — Frank’s death has come as a huge blow both to myself as a long-standing friend and colleague and to everyone in the Saxa team.

“But it was Frank’s firm wish that we should complete the mission that he and I and Debbie set out on way back in 2017, of turning SaxaVord into a commercial success story.

“We have come a long way since then, with all the infrastructure and personnel in place, as well as the requisite licences, to become the UK’s and Europe’s leading vertical launch rocket site.

“I am honoured to have been chosen to lead the company and will continue to give my heart and soul to this project as CEO. 

“I look forward to working closely with the team, our clients, investors, government and regulators to put the UK on the map as Europe’s gateway to space.”