Kirkwood Timber Frame, a leading offsite manufacturing business based in Aberdeenshire, has appointed Alan Little as its new Factory Operations Manager. The appointment comes as the company continues to expand its operations across the UK, marking a significant phase of growth.
Little, 50, hailing from near Kintore, Aberdeenshire, replaces the company’s recently retired factory manager. In his new role, Little will be responsible for overseeing production, logistics, factory efficiency, and operational development. His expertise and experience in manufacturing make him well-suited to further enhance the factory’s performance, helping the business meet the growing demand for timber frame structures across the country.
Kirkwood Timber Frame, which has invested over £3 million in cutting-edge machinery and technology, is poised to support the increasing market for timber frame construction. The company’s factory is one of the few in the UK capable of producing panels up to 12 meters in length and 300mm deep. This investment in state-of-the-art facilities ensures the business can deliver high-quality products to a diverse customer base.
With over 30 years of experience in the manufacturing sector, Little brings a wealth of knowledge to Kirkwood Timber Frame. His previous roles include working for British Steel, where he completed a graduate trainee programme, and in the construction industry, where he gained significant experience managing teams of up to 150 people. He has also worked in a variety of roles, including site operation planning, health and safety improvements, and cost control, making him an ideal fit for the company’s ambitious goals.
“I was drawn to this role because of Kirkwood’s strong vision and the substantial investment in its operations,” Little said. “The company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in timber frame construction is something I’m excited to be part of. The business is in a prime position to tap into the English market, providing modern, cost-effective solutions for developers, SMEs, and self-builders.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Kirkwood Timber Frame as the company looks to expand its reach beyond Scotland. Malcolm Thomson, Managing Director of the company, highlighted the significance of Little’s role in supporting the team’s continued success. “Alan is a key addition to our team, and his appointment comes at an exciting time for the business. We’re embarking on new contracts across the UK, and Alan’s expertise will be instrumental in maximising our factory capabilities,” Thomson said.
Kirkwood Timber Frame has over 40 years of experience delivering timber frame structures. The company has been involved in a number of major projects, including the delivery of accommodation for 55 students in Dundee, 64 affordable homes in Earlston, and 45 homes for a regional housebuilder in the Northeast of England. The company has also partnered with Places for People Scotland to deliver timber frame housing projects, including a 580-home scheme currently in progress.
As the demand for timber frame construction continues to grow, Kirkwood Timber Frame is well-positioned to play a leading role in the sector, delivering high-quality, sustainable housing solutions across the UK.