This follows five years of dedicated service, which saw him lead HFS through a period of significant transformation, growth and cultural change.

Mairi Coleman will become the new managing director, effective from 1 October.

Derek joined HFS after a distinguished career across Scotland’s built environment sector, bringing decades of experience and leadership expertise to the business. During his tenure as managing director, and as a valued member of the RCH Group Executive Leadership Team, he has overseen major operational improvements and helped position HFS strongly for future success.

Among his many achievements, Derek led a programme of transformation and culture change that elevated the profile of HFS and strengthened its foundations for long-term future growth. He played a key role in modernising operations, supporting significant improvements in health and safety culture, relocating back-office functions to RCH Group’s head office, introducing a new commercial vehicle fleet, and spearheading the rollout of the ROCC repairs system.

Derek also championed staff engagement and workforce development. His leadership was a major factor in HFS achieving both the prestigious Investors in People SILVER and Investors in Young People PLATINUM awards.

A spokesperson said: “On behalf of the organisation, the Executive Leadership Team has extended its sincere thanks to Derek for his commitment, leadership and lasting contribution to HFS and the wider RCH Group.

“As he embarks on retirement, Derek is looking forward to spending more time with his wife Lynn, their family, particularly their four grandchildren, and continuing his passion for golf.”

Mairi Coleman brings more than twenty years of experience in strategic leadership, organisational transformation and commercial management across construction, infrastructure and highly regulated environments.

Most recently, she served as construction director at Macleod Construction, where she oversaw an £80 million housing and infrastructure portfolio. Prior to her work in the built environment sector, Mairi held senior leadership positions within Lloyds Banking Group, delivering transformational change initiatives across both their UK and international operations.

In addition to her executive leadership experience, Mairi has a strong track record in governance and community leadership. She currently serves as Chair of LiveArgyll and is a Trustee of UHI Argyll.

Commenting on Derek’s retiral and Mairi’s appointment, Richard Turnock, RCH Group chief executive, said: “Derek leaves HFS with a strong foundation, an engaged workforce and a platform for future success. We are extremely grateful for his leadership and wish him every happiness in retirement.

“We are equally delighted to welcome Mairi to HFS. Her extensive experience, proven leadership credentials and commitment to organisational excellence make her exceptionally well placed to lead the business into its next chapter. We look forward to working with her as she builds on the strong legacy Derek leaves behind.”