Hillhouse Group appoint new chief executive officer
Alistair Borthwick appointed as CEO; Mark Munro appointed managing director of Hillhouse Quarry Group
HILLHOUSE Group have today announced the appointment of Alistair Borthwick to the newly established role of chief executive officer. Mr Borthwick, who joins from global air-traffic control organization NATS where he served as chief financial officer, will bring extensive international experience and a strong record in guiding complex organizations through periods of expansion and transformation.
Robert McNaughton, current managing director of Hillhouse Quarry Group, will retire in April after nearly two decades in senior leadership roles within the family-run business. Under his leadership, Hillhouse have grown from an Ayrshire-based business into one of the largest privately owned companies in Scotland. He has overseen major strategic and operational change and, in his final year, the business achieved a place in the top 100 private companies in Scotland.
Strengthening the leadership changes, Mark Munro has been promoted to managing director of Hillhouse Quarry Group. With more than 25 years of experience across the business, most recently as commercial director, Mr Munro brings deep operational knowledge and an understanding of the organization’s people and values. Widely regarded as a natural successor, his appointment provides stability and continuity during the transition period.
Andrew Vernon, chairman of Hillhouse Group, said: ‘Robert’s contribution to Hillhouse over the past 18 years cannot be overstated. He has been instrumental in transforming the organization and has championed a strong culture focused on people, innovation and operational excellence.
‘As we look to the future, the appointments of Alistair and Mark reflect both our commitment to continuity and our ambitions for the next chapter. Alistair brings strategic and financial leadership and a forward-looking perspective, while Mark’s deep operational experience will ensure stability for our people and our customers. Together, they are exceptionally well positioned to lead Hillhouse Group into the future.’
The appointment of Alistair Borthwick marks the beginning of a structured transition period lasting until April 2026. The transition plan is designed to maintain stability, reassure customers and partners, and support the organization’s long-term strategic goals.
Mr Borthwick said: ‘I’m pleased to be joining Hillhouse Group at such an important period in their long and proud history. The business has built an exceptional reputation for quality and service, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on that strong foundation in the months and years ahead.’
