Managing Director

Gordon Timber is a prestigious, family-owned sawmilling business based in Nairn, Highlands of Scotland. Established in 1862, it was acquired by the Gordon family in the late 19th century, making it one of Scotland’s oldest and longest-standing sawmill enterprises now in its fourth generation, led by brothers Ronald and Scott Gordon.
Gordon Timber processes locally grown North Scottish roundwood, supplying FSC-certified sawn timber for construction, fencing, pallets and packaging across the UK and for export to Scandinavia. The company is deeply committed to its people and community — notably becoming the first sawmill in the UK to achieve Investors in People accreditation back in 1995, an award it has retained for over 25 years.

The Managing Director will drive the strategic direction of the business, ensuring all operations are aligned with the company’s values, objectives, and regulatory responsibilities. The Managing Director will be responsible for effective leadership of the Senior Team.

We are seeking an experienced and driven leader to join Gordon Timber in a key operational role. Reporting to the Executive Director, you will:

• Lead the organisation in delivering its safety, strategic, operational, and financial goals.
• Provide clear leadership and direct line management to managers responsible for Health & Safety, Production, Yard Operations, Engineering, and Harvesting.
• Work closely with the Head of Finance on budgeting, monitoring and performance management.
• Chair regular senior management, operational and production meetings.
• Represent Gordon Timber with customers, suppliers, regulators, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and high performance.
• Oversee talent development and succession planning for senior and critical roles.

We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Senior leadership experience in a complex manufacturing, timber processing or industrial setting.
• Deep understanding of operational safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Strong track record in leading multi-disciplinary teams and managing competing priorities.
• Proven commercial acumen, including budgeting, financial reporting, and performance analysis.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills at all levels.
• Experience managing significant capital assets and engineering maintenance programmes.
• (Desirable) Experience in the timber or forestry sector and familiarity with the Highlands context.
• (Desirable) Knowledge of Lean or continuous improvement methodologies.
• (Desirable) Degree-level qualification in a relevant field or equivalent experience.