A long-established, family-run Dorset company has announced the appointment of a new Chairman.

After more than 18 years at the helm of the Hoburne Group, Rosie Kennar, Hoburne’s fourth-generation Chairman, has announced she will be stepping down and her son, John Butters, will now take the business into its next chapter.

Since the roots of the Christchurch-based Hoburne Group began in 1912, a family member has led the business.

Over the last two years, the boards of Hoburne Ltd. and Burry & Knight Ltd. have given considerable thought to identifying the best possible candidate.

Rosie said: “The greatest challenge for family businesses of all shapes and sizes to overcome is that of succession planning, and we have been mindful of the need to prepare for the future.

“In a long-established family business like ours, it was important to us that the best possible solution be a family member that would remain committed to our values.

“I am delighted the boards unanimously approved John as my successor.”

John has served as a non-executive director on the Hoburne Ltd. board since 2016.

He was appointed to the Burry & Knight Ltd. board last December.

Hoburne has always been a part of John’s life, from family holidays to appearing as a model in promotional photography and holiday jobs, including working on the grounds at Crane Valley Golf Club.

He worked briefly in the public sector and politics before entering the world of finance as an analyst at Sand Aire, a family-owned business that specialises in investment management for families and charities, in time becoming a portfolio manager for several clients.

John has also worked as an economic strategist at a start-up hedge fund before returning to the wealth management industry as Head of Investment at Aspinalls Family Office.

He is currently Chief Investment Officer at the family-owned Weatherbys Private Bank, a role he will continue.

Commenting on his appointment, John said: “This is a significant chapter for our family-run business, and I could not be more delighted to be appointed to the Chair of the Hoburne Group.

“We are lucky to have a diverse business portfolio and an outstanding management team, both of which make this an exciting role to be stepping into.

“My mother and grandfather have created a wonderful culture of warmth, friendliness, and integrity, which combined with the superb quality and value for money we offer make Hoburne a very special place.

“My previous roles have provided me with a great understanding and passion for family business, and I hope to be able to add some of my own insight whilst ensuring we remain committed to our family values.”

Rosie added: “As a fifth-generation family member, John brings with him not only his impressive business experience but also the ‘breath of fresh air’ of a next generation that understands the values and priorities so vital for maintaining the momentum of success in our ever-changing world.

“His appointment provides continuity for the Hoburne Group as a highly respected family business, and I look forward to working closely with John during his transition period and will continue to be closely involved in the business as a non-executive director.”

Hoburne now has eight holiday parks across the south and south west of England,as well as three golf clubs under the Hoburne Golf brand and a residential and commercial development operation under Hoburne Development.