TWO APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD OF HARRIS TWEED HEBRIDES
Harris Tweed Hebrides has announced the appointment of two island women to key positions on its board. Both are current employees of the company.
Elaine MacRury becomes Finance Director while Margaret Ann MacLeod takes over as Sales Director.
Harris Tweed Hebrides chairman, Brian Wilson, said: "These appointments recognise both excellent service to the company and also the need to underpin its continuing success by refreshing the board and management structure".
Harris Tweed Hebrides chairman, Brian Wilson, said: "These appointments recognise both excellent service to the company and also the need to underpin its continuing success by refreshing the board and management structure".
Elaine has been Financial Controller at the Shawbost Mill for the past four years. A graduate of the University of Aberdeen, and a CCAB qualified accountant, Elaine spent a number of years working for Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and has extensive experience working at a senior level in an accountancy environment. She spent some time working in Aberdeenshire before returning to her native Lewis where she now lives in the village of Borve.
Appointed Brand Director with Harris Tweed Hebrides in 2013, Margaret Ann had previously worked in the textiles sector for companies including Johnstons of Elgin and Arcadia. A native of Lewis and a Gaelic speaker, Margaret Ann returned to the island 12 years ago and worked for Highlands & Islands Enterprise. She is Chair of HI-Scot Credit Union, the largest credit union operating across the Highlands and Islands, and a Board member at Stornoway Port Authority.
Harris Tweed Hebrides chief executive, Ian Angus Mackenzie, said: "Over the past ten years, we have seen a significant heartening change in the age profile within the company and industry. As we move into our second decade, it is the right time to reflect this in the make-up of the board while also recognising our confidence in Elaine and Margaret Ann".
The company accounts for around three-quarters of all Harris Tweed production and employs over 70 people while also giving work to around 140 independent home weavers. It has won numerous awards including UK Textile Brand of the Year and Scottish Exporter of the Year.
