Walker’s Shortbread stalwart Sir Jim Walker passes away aged 80
Walker’s Shortbread has confirmed that Sir Jim Walker has died at the age of 80.
The family-owned business’ former managing director passed away at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary yesterday, December 15.
James, known as Jim, was born in Elgin on June 13 1944, son of the late James and Winnie Walker, younger brother of the late Joe and Marjorie Walker.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Jennifer, his children Jacqui, Jamie, Bryony and Alastair, and six grandchildren Logan, Romy, Joshua, Torren, Joanie and Wyatt.
Jim joined the family bakery alongside a workforce of 16 people and learnt every aspect of the work involved shortly after completing his education at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen.
During his long career he was responsible for sales and marketing – he was the company’s first salesperson - and for over 60 years, he dedicated his life to creating and building the iconic Walker’s brand across the world.
In his role as joint managing director alongside his brother Joe, Jim was the driving force of Walker’s sales growth, developing the business from a small family bakery in Aberlour to a globally recognised brand and being awarded the Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth in 2002.
He recently stepped aside from his main responsibilities to an ambassadorial and advisory role, allowing the members of the fourth generation, including three of his children, to take on the management of the company.
Sir Jim was awarded the CBE for services to industry in 1999 and in 2022 he was named within the prestigious Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood in Queen Elizabeth II’s last Birthday Honours list.
The Honour of Knighthood was in recognition of exceptional services to the food industry.
A statement from Walker’s Shortbread added: “Beyond his professional legacy, Jim will be remembered for his warmth, humility, and generosity of spirit – a person who took genuine interest in others and who was well loved in the business and the wider community.
“Jim was enormously loved by many people around the world, especially colleagues and customers.
“He loved fishing on the River Spey, playing golf, and he had a keen interest in ornithology and nature, though his family, with four children and six grand-children, and business, have been his main interest and pleasures.
“He will always be remembered as a devoted, energetic and kind man who was an inspiration to many who knew him.
“We will honour his memory by continuing to uphold the values and legacy he built over a lifetime of dedication.”