A north-east businessman who is a driving force in the food and drink industry has said it was a “welcome surprise” to be made an MBE.
Stanley Morrice has been a senior executive in several major Scottish food and drink businesses throughout his career, and works hard to promote sustainable food and drink production in the region.
The 59-year-old is currently chairman of the food, drink and agriculture board at Opportunity North East (One).
His career has allowed him to take the helm of successful ventures such as Aberness Foods, acquired by Somerfield in a £20million deal in 2004.
He also served as vice-chairman of Scottish Enterprise Grampian, representing the food and drink sector between 2003 and 2008.
‘I’m very proud of my roots in the north-east of Scotland’
His contribution to food and drink has now been officially recognised with his inclusion in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
Mr Morrice, who was born in Fraserburgh but now lives in Fintray with his wife Evelyn and English springer spaniel Pebbles, said: “I’m very proud of my roots in the north-east of Scotland and the opportunities the region has provided me.
“It’s a privilege to be at the stage in life where I can focus my time on giving something back through mentoring the next generation of business leaders, sharing the experience with students and ensuring that we secure a thriving economy for generations to come.
“At the heart of that challenge is our food and drink sector, making sure this region remains synonymous with premium quality produce and that we maximise the opportunities of decarbonising the sector by giving businesses the support to grow and succeed.
“It’s been an honour to have been able to contribute to shaping the sector’s future, and I look forward to continuing to do so.”
Conversation