Leading timber supplier, James Donaldson Timber (JDT) has appointed Mike Ellison to the role of general manager at its new flagship site in Chorley.

An engineer by trade, Mike brings a wealth of experience and transferable skills to the team, with ten years of operational management in the packaging industry and 20 years as a maintenance engineer.

Originally from Ormskirk, Mike joins JDT from CPS Paper Products where he was business operations manager, leading a team of five and a site of 50. Prior to that, he was production manager at leading sustainable packaging supplier, DS Smith.

Mike joins JDT at a transformational period for the business, with the remit to set up and manage the new 110,000ft2 manufacturing facility in Botany Bay Business Park. Well experienced in lean manufacturing, Mike brings knowledge and expertise to support the team as they transition into a new phase of operations.

The flagship site has the capability to more than double current production capacity and improve operational efficiencies for JDT, with opportunities for market growth and diversification.

The new factory is currently on target and expected to be fully operational by autumn 2025. Mike said:

“I’ve had a very encouraging induction period, getting to know the team, the business and the wider Group. It’s such a positive, collaborative environment, with a great culture and real family feel – this move is the best decision I’ve made. The team ethic at senior level is brilliant and my colleagues at Brinscall and Chorley are superb."

“Things are developing well with the new facility, so I’m really looking forward to getting the lines up and running and getting people in to see how fantastic it is. The increased capacity alone will have immediate benefits for customers, reducing lead times, enhancing the customer service experience and strengthening stock availability. There are endless opportunities, and I’m excited to work with the team to establish JDT Chorley as the market-leading site, while defining its place as a flagship unit for the 165-year-old Donaldson Group.”

Iain Torrance, managing director of James Donaldson Timber said:

“The new site at Botany Bay is a huge move for us as a business, and we need someone with the right experience and skillset to help take us forward with it. In the short time he’s been with us, Mike is proving to be exactly what we need. He brings excellent insight into lean manufacturing, which will be a great asset as we develop our offering.”

Currently led by the sixth generation of Donaldson, the 165-year-old Donaldson Group comprises a total of 16 specialist timber and building product businesses and brands, operating throughout the UK.