A leading Scottish businessman was inducted into the Entrepreneurial Exchange’s ‘Hall of Fame’ during a glittering ceremony at the Glasgow Hilton hotel (on Thursday 1 December 2011).

Jim Milne, founder, chairman and managing director of Aberdeen-based Balmoral Group, was added to the list of business luminaries that began in 2002 and includes Sir Jackie Stewart, Sir Bill Gammell, Jim McColl and Martin Gilbert.

Between two and four successful entrepreneurs are inducted into the Hall of Fame annually, each receiving a special bronze award that is set in Scottish stone.

Also inducted this year were Ivor Tiefenbrun, founder of Linn Products, Gerald and Vera Weisfeld, founders of What Everyone Wants and the Weisfeld Foundation.

Balmoral Group was established in 1980 producing glass reinforced plastics products. Today, the privately-owned company is recognised as a leading designer and manufacturer of solutions for the global subsea, energy, civil and environmental engineering sectors.

Now, with a payroll approaching 400 and turnover for year ended 31 March 2011 exceeding £73m, the company exports approximately 84% of its manufactured goods.

Commenting on the induction, Jim said: “I am deeply honoured to be added to such a distinguished list of Scottish business talent. The breadth of experience that the Hall of Fame represents is outstanding and is unique in its recognition of Scottish entrepreneurship.

“Everything that we have achieved at Balmoral has been accomplished through teamwork. I am therefore delighted to dedicate this award to everyone that has been part of our team since 1980.”

Synonymous with Aberdeen and the Scottish manufacturing industry, Jim’s travels have taken him around the world many times. A respected international entrepreneur and businessman he is renowned for his straight talking and for extolling the virtues of Scotland and Aberdeen city and shire in particular.

Mr Milne was awarded the CBE in 1994; received an honorary doctorate from Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University in 1999 and was made Burgess of Guild in the City of Aberdeen during 2004. He became Deputy Lieutenant of Aberdeen City in January 2007 and received a Degree Honoris Causa from the University of Aberdeen in 2008.

Tags: Balmoral Group