Sixth generation takes the reins at James Donaldson & Sons

16/06/2020
L-R Andrew, Neil and Michael Donaldson

TIMBER specialist, James Donaldson & Sons has announced its new senior team, as Andrew Donaldson and Michael Donaldson take over as chief executive officer and chairman.

As the business celebrates its 160th anniversary, 2020 is a momentous year for the Group, with the change in leadership also marking the sixth generation of Donaldsons to run the family firm.

Andrew was appointed as chief executive officer in April, with Michael commencing his position as chairman from 31 July, taking over from his father Neil Donaldson when he retires.

In their new roles, Andrew is responsible for the commercial and trading performance of the business, while Michael will lead the main supervisory board, which comprises chairman, four non-executive directors, finance director and chief executive officer.

Neil Donaldson said: “It was always my hope that the business would be passed on to the next generation, so for both Andy and Mike to be taking on the reins is an ideal scenario and a proud moment for me.”

Andrew said:  “We were brought up with our father and grandfather leading the business, so their moral compass is at the forefront of all we do – nothing will change in terms of the Donaldson ambitions or principles.”

The James Donaldson Group comprises seven subsidiaries, trading from 31 sites throughout the UK, with over 1000 employees and a turnover of circa £225m. The business has been operating in Fife for 160 years.

Michael added:  “Andrew and I spent our summers working in the family business, and we’ve spent the last ten years preparing to take over the leadership.

“Despite the incredibly difficult circumstances that we find ourselves in at the time of taking over, dealing with the impact of COVID-19, things are off to a great start for us and we have some ambitious plans for the business.”

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