Eric Bourne, who has been Managing Director for Bournes since taking over from his father in the 1970s, has announced his intention to move into the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors as part of the company’s succession plan.
The succession plan sets out the company’s aims for developing and training future leaders and senior management to enable continued sustainable growth and development as the current roles are resigned due to retirement.
Having joined the company in 1962 Eric and his brother Roy have worked tirelessly to develop the company from the local Rye Removal Company of the early days to the multi-million pound global relocation service provider it is today, having been joined by their sons Wesley, Leon and Tom during the 2000s.
In his new role as Chairman, Eric aims to guide and support the senior management team in its overall strategy, he will remain a key ambassador for the company throughout the global relocation industry and looks forward to continuing to meet colleagues across the world at industry events. The senior management team has put together a detailed plan to ensure that through his role as Chairman Eric’s extensive knowledge, skills and capabilities can be utilised to equip the future generations with the tools they need to continue the development.
During his time as Managing Director Eric has played an active role in not only developing Bournes own business but has had a significant influence on the changing industry as a whole, having served as a representative of BAR in several key positions from 1975 to 2000, including on the Board of Directors. He has also been influential in the formation of the UniGroup Relocation Network.
The role of Managing Director will be filled by his son Wesley Bourne.
Having started his working life as a porter and driver for the company in 1994, Wesley officially joined the Management team in 2001 following successful completion of his degree in Business and gaining international industry experience in the USA and The Netherlands. In his current role as General Manager Wesley has driven much of the recent growth at Bournes including the development of the Corporate Relocation Solutions division and significant innovative improvements to sales, move management and operations.
In 2008, following participation in the UniGroup Relocation Network Futures Group, Wesley was appointed to the network’s Board of Directors and continues to play a key role in its expansion and development worldwide. Wesley also sits on the Council of the BAR Overseas Group.
Photo: Wesley Bourne; Eric Bourne