Walker’s Shortbread has announced the appointment of Nicky Walker as managing director with immediate effect.
The new MD, who joined the family business 25 years ago, was first appointed to the Walker’s board in 2007 as production director. His role involved working with his late father, Joe, in developing the company’s facilities in Aberlour and Elgin.
“It is an enormous honour to be given this responsibility to lead the family business,” said Walker. “As joint managing directors, my father and my uncle James transformed what was a village bakery into an internationally renowned business and brand.
“Working with other members of the fourth generation and an outstanding board and management team, I am confident we will achieve great success together.”
Another fourth-generation member of the family, Bryony Walker, has been appointed to the company’s executive committee in the role of head of commercial strategy, reporting to commercial director Steve McCarney.
Her father and former joint managing director Jim will now step aside from day-to-day responsibilities after 60 years of active service but will continue as a director and will represent the company as an ambassador.
“I am delighted that my nephew Nicky is taking on the position of managing director,” he said. “His late father and I shared this role for almost 60 years, working closely with our sister Marjorie, and it is very rewarding to be passing the reins to the next generation who are ably supported by a fantastic Board and professional management team”.
Bob Brannan, Walker’s chairman, said the news signalled “exciting times” for the company.
“With a clear vision, focused strategy and a strengthened executive committee, Walker’s is a great example of how an international brand can thrive under consistent, long-term, family-ownership,” the chairman added.
Walker’s has recently undergone a ‘refresh’ of its brand identity, which Brannan said is “resonating strongly with consumers and reflects the energy and pace that the company has been able to establish in recent years despite challenging market conditions”.
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