Rob Walker (above), who led two management buyouts of BIE Executive, is handing over the role of company CEO over to Gordon Whyte, and will become a strategic adviser to the BIE board.

Walker has been involved with BIE since 2006, leading the company into private ownership through the two MBOs in 2013 and 2017. He also is well-known throughout the recruitment and executive search worlds through founding and serving as joint MD of Walker Hamill for nearly 11 years, a two-year stint as COO of Imprint, three years as non-executive chairman of Hexagon and three years as CEO of the Cornhill Partnership.

Whyte has been a part of BIE’s senior leadership team for over 10 years, a company statement said. “Over the past six months, Rob has worked closely with Gordon in preparation for the handover to ensure BIE continues with its growth agenda,” the company statement said. “Although Rob will have a less active role in the day-to-day operations at BIE, he remains an important adviser to Gordon and the rest of the board.”

Walker said he had “every faith” that Whyte would steer BIE through the next stage of its development.

“I am looking forward to watching the business blossom under his leadership and providing support as needed, as I begin a less hands-on role.”

Image credit | Pal-Hansen