Institute for Family Business appoints new Scottish chairman

The Institute for Family Business has appointed Ben Gray of Dundee-based media group DC Thomson & Co as its new chairman in Scotland.

Mr Gray, who is head of strategy and development for family-owned publishing firm, succeeds David Murray, director of private investment company, Murray Capital, and son of Sir David Murray, the former owner of Rangers Football Club.

Previously MD of DC Thomson’s magazine division during which he ran a major outsourcing and restructuring project to boost performance of its publishing arm, Mr Gray will be responsible for growing the institute’s reach, rolling out a programme of learning and networking events and supporting family firms to thrive.

IFB chairman Peter Armitage said the organisation’s new chairman was “highly respected” in Scottish business circles and brought “an in-depth understanding of the unique ethos of family businesses” to the role.

“Scotland has a significant family business presence, with more than 290,000 firms family owned, and the IFB is committed to building a strong network to promote and support them,” Mr Armitage said.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank David for his hard work and wish him all the best for the future.”

Mr Gray said he was honoured.

He said: “Family businesses are the backbone of our economy and whilst there are many things which make family business special, like our strong values, community spirit and long-term outlook, we can encounter challenges too.

“I am looking forward to continuing David’s outstanding work and continuing to support family businesses in Scotland.”

One of the new chairman’s first engagements will be hosting IFB Scotland’s annual dinner on Monday at which DC Thomson Publishing CEO Ellis Watson will be guest speaker.