A FINANCE professional with an extensive background in PLC companies has been recruited to a successful Cumbrian business.
The Holker Group, based in south Cumbria, appointed Stuart Sims to the senior role to bring diverse corporate experience to its portfolio of firms.
Stuart, who lives in Kirkby Lonsdale with his veterinary surgeon wife Catriona, has previously worked for businesses including Aviva, Fyffes, Premier Foods and Renold Plc.
“The diversity of the businesses within the group is really interesting,” he said.
“From Holker Hall and Gardens and Cartmel Racecourse, which are primarily leisure-based, to Burlington Stone which is different altogether.
“My role will be to oversee the financial health of the portfolio so that the senior management team can continue to deliver fantastic services to the public and the wider business community on behalf of the Cavendish family.”
The Holker Group is chaired by The Rt Hon Lucy Cavendish, of Holker Hall, alongside non-executive chair Heather Hancock, a former managing partner of Deloitte in the UK and Switzerland.
Its stable of businesses includes Holker Hall and Gardens, Cartmel Racecourse, Burlington Stone and the farming and property interests of the Holker Estate.
Stuart added: “I’ve worked across a number of different businesses over the course of my career but there’s a unique feel here within the Holker Group.
“This is a long established set of businesses with a great deal of history and heritage behind them.
“Continuity is very important to ensure this legacy is protected for the future.
“The focus is on the medium to long term view which is really refreshing. It’s not something you tend to find within Plcs.”
Allen Gibb, Holker Group chief executive, said he was delighted to welcome Stuart to the business.
“This is an exciting development for the Holker Group and its businesses across the area.
“The range of interests within the group is broad, so we are particularly pleased to have appointed Stuart Sims as financial director.
“He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table from a diverse range of companies which will add strength to our senior team, helping to ensure we continue to operate successfully in an ever changing economic landscape.”
