Jim Galbraith, the CEO of mutual life and investments organisation Scottish Friendly, has passed away.
Paying tribute to Galbraith in a statement released today, the group said he had been at the heart of the society’s journey for over 30 years and in that time his passion for its mutual life office had shown no end, while devoting the best part of his career to strengthening, guiding and driving the group forward.
A natural leader, Scottish Friendly praised Galbraith for laying the foundations for the group by building an experienced leadership team dedicated to maintaining his historic vision. The group added his presence, dry humour and friendship would be sorely missed by everyone.
Paying his own tribute, Neil Lovatt, commercial director of Scottish Friendly, said: “Jim was my friend, and a great friend to so many in Scottish Friendly. We were lucky to have him in our life office. He believed fundamentally in the mutual ethos of Scottish Friendly and had a keen sense of its heritage and historic mission. To that end he built an incredibly deep and strong team committed to our vision and dedicated to continuing Scottish Friendly’s successful strategy. It is for us, the employees of Scottish Friendly, to honour his faith in us and continue to deliver for our current and future members.
David Huntley, chair of Scottish Friendly, added: “This is, understandably, a terrible shock for all of us at Scottish Friendly and our thoughts and prayers are with Jim’s family at this difficult time. We are also providing support to our staff, many of whom have known Jim for a significant amount of time. The Board has appointed Martin Pringle into the role of acting CEO.”
Pringle said: “This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone in Scottish Friendly. Jim led this historic organisation with passion and vision, and he will be greatly missed by everyone. No one wants to take on an organisation in such circumstances but, having worked closely with Jim over the years, together with everyone in Scottish Friendly I will continue to take the society forward and ensure that Jim Galbraith would be proud of us all.”