Mackie’s of Scotland has appointed Barry Swan as head of engineering.
Swan, who joined Mackie’s last month, has had a “rich and varied career”, including military service and a decade in the UK fmcg industry.
He started out in the British Army’s Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, where he specialised as a radar technician and worked on cutting-edge technology, including the Rapier guided missile system.
Following his military service, Swan managed water bottling plants for both the Canadian and British Armed Forces, where he spent eight years across two contracts in Kabul and Helmand Province in Afghanistan.
Since 2012, he has worked in various roles across Scotland’s food and drink sector, holding engineering leadership positions at The Edinburgh Salmon Company, Paterson Arran, Whyte & Mackay and – most recently – Young’s Seafood owner Sofina Foods.
Swan’s role at Mackie’s will focus on developing the engineering team and overseeing site-wide functions such as refrigeration, production, and moulding; all while driving the development of modern standards and practices to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
“Joining Mackie’s is a privilege,” said Swan. “This is a business that aligns with my values, combining family tradition with forward-thinking innovation.
“I’m excited to lead the modernisation of our engineering processes… Together, we’ll ensure the facilities reflect the premium quality that Mackie’s stands for.”
Mackie’s MD Stuart Common said: “Barry’s extensive experience and leadership make him a perfect fit for Mackie’s.
“With Barry at the helm of our engineering team, we’re well-placed to deliver on our growth ambitions.”
Swan’s is Mackie’s third senior leadership appointment in 2024. The Aberdeenshire ice cream supplier welcomed Will Dixon as head of sales in May, followed by Paul Henshaw as head of operations in September.
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