Obituary notice – Mr Gordon Braide
We are deeply saddened to announce that our former managing director, Gordon Braide (76), passed away on 9th January 2016.
Mr Braide, first joined SARIA Ltd – previously Prosper De Mulder Ltd. (PDM Group) – in January 1970. Working alongside the company’s chairman, Mr Prosper De Mulder and his son Anthony De Mulder, Gordon helped to take the business through a period of rapid growth in the 1970s and early 80s.
Holding a number of positions within the PDM Group before his retirement in 2013, including financial director and managing director, Gordon was recognised as a key figurehead for the meat trade and rendering industry. During the BSE crisis, he played an instrumental role in leading industry negotiations with the UK government, ultimately leading to his appointment as chairman of the UK Renderers’ Association in 1998.
Andy Smith, chief executive at SARIA, commented: “A very affable and gregarious character, Gordon always placed great strength in the traditional values of honesty and integrity. He played a vital role in helping the De Mulder family develop the company into the business it is today. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and the many people who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”