Nicky Walker new managing director of Aberlour's Walker's Shortbread
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WALKER'S Shortbread's first new managing director in 60 years keeps it in the family.
The Aberlour bakery has today announced that Nicky Walker will take up his late father's top job.
As a fourth generation baking Walker he is a familiar face at the bakery and the new job is the peak of a 25-year career.
Nicky said: “It is an enormous honour to be given this responsibility to lead the family business.
"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.”
Walker's will celebrate its 125th anniversary next year and the local businesses now sells a wide range of oatcakes, biscuits and cakes alongside the famous shortbread.
The business employs more than 1400 people between factories in Aberlour and Elgin and shops across the north east.
Nicky's cousin Bryony Walker also continues the legacy, being named the new head of commercial strategy.
Jim Walker, outgoing managing director, said: “I am delighted that my nephew Nicky is taking on the position of managing director.
"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."
Chairman Bob Brannan commented: “These are exciting times.
"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 recent refresh of the brand identity 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.”
