Stepping up from his role as vice-president, Robertson replaces J Thomson managing director Kevin Creechan, who had held the post for five years. With 47 years of experience in the industry, he has worked with Print Scotland for a number of years before taking the lead.
Robertson brings political experience to the job as former leader of West Dunbartonshire County Council and one-time Scottish Parliamentary candidate for the SNP.
In his capacity on the Print Scotland board, he successfully lobbied with the Scottish government to adopt a multi-supplier framework for its procurement to defend the livelihoods of Caledonian printers.
He said: “I hope to bring a range of skills to the presidency, especially in the political arena where I have previously lobbied with the government. I hope to keep up that pressure and make sure public sector jobs are made to support all Scottish printers.
“The other critical part of my presidency, carrying over from Kevin, will be the development of our apprenticeship scheme as we work on encouraging more people into our industry by helping them to see it as a real career opportunity.
“Scottish print is very diverse and technically advanced; the possibilities have widened in recent years. [While] we are at risk of an ageing workforce and need more economic stability, I generally think we are in good shape. However, we cannot be complacent.”
At Print Scotland’s 108th AGM on 30 August, Charles Letts senior executive Susan Graham was appointed as Robertson’s vice-president.
The organisation represents the 5,500 people that work within the Scottish print industry and is responsible for training modern apprentices through the Scottish Training Scheme.
Robertson’s company JJR Print is based in Dumbarton and provides full-colour litho, digital and wide-format printing services.
