A leading Cumbrian livestock auctioneer has appointed a new head of operations.
Harrison & Hetherington has welcomed highly respected Scottish auctioneer and strategic business professional Robin Anderson to join their senior management team in the newly created role.
In the company’s 100th anniversary year, this strategic senior executive appointment is a landmark in the development of H&H Group’s auctioneering division into one of the most successful livestock trading businesses in the UK.
Harrison & Hetherington has seven marts across the North of England and the Borders and attract buyers and sellers from all over the UK and increasingly overseas.
The firm said: “To bear on the quality and efficiency of their fast-expanding operations and to ensure that all operations are fit for the future it was evident that someone dedicated to this specific role was needed and with Robin Anderson’s exceptional experience fits the criteria perfectly.”
This appointment comes on the heels of the announcement of a significant £1 million development at Borderway Mart in Carlisle, H&H’s flagship auction centre.
The improvements to the mart’s infrastructure, reflect the company’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leading hub for livestock trading in the UK.
The development will enhance the facilities available to both buyers and sellers, further strengthening Borderway Mart’s ability to serve the evolving needs of the agricultural community.
Currently based in Dumfries, Robin joins Harrison & Hetherington from a similar position as head of strategic development and operations for Aberdeen & Northern Marts, and his experience includes 20 years as managing director at Wallets Mart in Castle Douglas.
Harrison & Hetherington managing director Scott Donaldson said: “We are currently going through a period of growth, with many ongoing building and infrastructure projects at our various centres.
“The strategy of the business going forward is focused on futureproofing and growth, so as our teams continue running the day-to-day trading business, having someone like Robin Anderson dedicated to this is essential.
“I have known Robin for many years, so I know that nobody is better qualified, experienced, or skilled in improving efficiencies and processes in this business.”
Robin is a past president of the IAAS, a member of the Scottish Agricultural Arbiters and Valuers Association, and a former council member of the Farm Animal Welfare Council.
Robin is highly respected throughout the industry and brings with him a wealth of in-depth knowledge and experience, which he will use in his new role:
He said: “I am really excited about joining the team at H&H. It is a business I have always admired, and being part of it is an exciting challenge. I look forward to bringing new dimensions from my own experience to help build on the strong foundations already in place.
“Companies need to address and adapt to accelerating advances in new technology and higher expectations in health and safety and in animal welfare.
“My focus will be on improving systems, streamlining processes, and supporting the development of staff to achieve the efficiencies and the standards that will make Harrison & Hetherington a world-class livestock trading hub for a world-class livestock sector going forward into the future.”
