Macphie appoints new operations director to oversee development of manufacturing sites

Scottish-based ingredients supplier Macphie has appointed Donald MacDonald to the role of operations director to oversee the development of two manufacturing facilities.

With a background in chemical engineering, MacDonald (pictured left above) brings more than 20 years of experience leading operations, supply chain and engineering roles within the food industry.

Prior to his move, he spent four years as operations director at Scottish Salmon Company. He has also held senior roles at Rio Tinto and Bakkavor.

The appointment comes as Macphie is undertaking a programme of works to expand production across both its Scottish sites at Glenbervie near Stonehaven and Tannochside in North Lanarkshire.

With MacDonald taking on oversight of operations, former site director Ed Widdowson (pictured right) has moved into the role of strategy and sustainability director.

The family-owned business has held B Corp certification since 2015 and aims to be carbon neutral by 2035.

It has implemented sustainability incentives including the installation of solar panels at the Tannochside site, and upgraded its boiler facilities with the aim to reduce energy usage by 20-25%.

Andy Stapley, Macphie CEO, said: "We're at a generational crossroads. The business has come through a strong period of growth despite the recent economic challenges and the latest appointments will be instrumental in driving our business forward.

"We have signed off a huge investment commitment to overhaul elements of our sites at Glenbervie and Tannochside to boost production and jobs, while also improving upon our sustainability credentials.

"It's also important to invest in talented individuals who will bring fresh ideas and energy to the business and help us to thrive in the market."

MacDonald said: "This is a high-growth, high-ambition company.

"In the shorter term we have major investment programmes underway, and I'm getting heavily involved as we expand our manufacturing capacity in Scotland.

"One thing I've already come to realise is there's an incredibly strong team of people at Macphie, which has been supplemented in recent years with senior leaders from a range of different backgrounds. I'm delighted to be able to play my part."

MacDonald's appointment follows on from Macphie's recent appointment of Susie Turan to head of products and innovation.