THE DUKE of Buccleuch, chairman of Buccleuch, has announced that James Galbraith MRICS has accepted an invitation to join the Buccleuch board of directors as a non-executive director, with effect from March 1.

James Galbraith was chairman of land management company Galbraith (formerly CKD Galbraith) from its inception in 2003 until 2014, during which time it developed to be one of the most successful businesses in its field in Scotland. He was brought up near the Buccleuch family home at Bowhill where his father was, for many years, the senior estate factor. Having spent most of his career working in Edinburgh, James has now returned to live in the Borders on his family’s farm at Ancrum.

James has broad experience across all aspects of rural and commercial estate management and investment, with a particular interest in forestry. He commented: “I was a mud student in the early 1970s working for Buccleuch on their in-hand farm at Bowhill. It provided me with invaluable experience on which I was able to develop my career. My appointment as non-executive director gives me the opportunity to contribute to the decisions of the board as it addresses the challenges and opportunities now facing landed estates.”

The Duke of Buccleuch commented: “James has huge experience and sage advice to offer across the spectrum of our activities and particularly for our rural teams the input of someone who really understand the land and the complexities of rural life will be invaluable. I am absolutely delighted that our two families will be linked together once more in looking after Buccleuch.”