A former Scottish football supremo has been appointed as chairman of an iconic Moray food firm.
Walkers Shortbread yesterday announced ex-Rangers chief executive and former Dundee chairman, Bob Brannan, would now be heading up its board.
Mr Brannan replaces current non-executive chairman Michael Walker, who will officially be stepping down and retiring from his role on May 25 after 10 years in the post.
Jim Walker, joint managing director at Walkers Shortbread said: “We are delighted to have Bob Brannan on board as our chairman, as he has a lot of experience in working with family businesses and a very good track record.”
As well as his days in Scottish football, Mr Brannan also brings with him a wealth of boardroom experience from outside the sporting industry, having chaired at the likes of Richard Irvin & Son and Deltic Group Limited.
He has also held the position of group managing director with both William Grant & Sons and Whyte & Mackay.
The appointment of Mr Brannan follows the recent recruitment of Steve McCarney who joined the business at the beginning of the year as chief commercial officer.
The firm said his role, along with Mr Brannan’s appointment, will ensure the longevity of Walkers, maintaining a secure platform from which the business can continue to grow.
The firm added: “The board would like to place on record its appreciation for all that Michael Walker has achieved during his tenure and to wish him a long and very happy retirement.”
Walkers Shortbread was established 120 years ago in Aberlour, Speyside, and is still an independent family concern.
The company, a four times winner of the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement, is headed by the founder’s grandchildren and great grandchildren, who say they try to maintain the tradition of producing the finest shortbreads, biscuits, cakes, oatcakes and meringues.
In 2017 the business was granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment for the supply of shortbread to the royal household.