Tribute to Sir Jim Walker | ONE

The two first met at school at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen and went on to grow their respective family businesses into global enterprises.

Sir Ian said: “Sir Jim and his family turned their business in the north east of Scotland into a global brand. Wherever I travelled in my own career, I would see Walker’s shortbread, and that was in no small part down to Sir Jim, who successfully led their international sales drive and devoted his working life to growing what is one of this country’s iconic brands. His entrepreneurial spirit and hard work will have been an inspiration to many within and beyond the vital food and drink manufacturing and production sector – an industry he did a huge amount to encourage, nourish and promote over decades. The industry has sadly lost a very significant figure but his legacy undoubtedly will live on through his achievements and the impacts of his advice, experience and friendship to so many over the years.

“He wore his success lightly and with humility, and was a gentleman in his professional and personal life. He was one of the finest gentlemen I’ve known.

“Alongside his passion and commitment to food and drink, Sir Jim was a great family man and my thoughts and condolences are with his family,” said Sir Ian.