It was with huge sadness that I learned of the death of Sir Jim Milne, one of the North-east's greatest business figures and a man whose contribution to our region will be felt for generations to come.
Sir Jim had not been in the best of health in recent months. But that didn't stop him doing what Sir Jim did best – approaching life, business and everything he believed in with extraordinary energy, passion and gusto.
He was a force of nature. A proud Aberdonian, a remarkable entrepreneur, an extraordinarily generous philanthropist and, above all, someone who cared deeply about the people and the place he called home.
His business achievements speak for themselves. From humble beginnings as a farmer's loon who left school at 14, he built Balmoral into a global success story, creating jobs, wealth and opportunity while putting Aberdeen firmly on the international business map.
But for all his commercial success, I suspect Jim would want to be remembered just as much for what he gave back.
Through Friends of ANCHOR, the Milne Family Foundation and countless other acts of generosity, he demonstrated that business success and social responsibility are not competing ambitions. Quite the opposite. The most successful businesses can also be the greatest forces for good.
I was fortunate to get to know Jim well over the last few years through our shared passion for the North-east, working together on a variety of initiatives aimed at making this region an even better place to live, work and do business.
He was never short of an opinion, an idea or a determination to make things happen. And his enthusiasm was infectious.
The support Jim and the wider Balmoral team gave to the work of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce was hugely appreciated and never taken for granted. He understood the importance of a strong business voice for the region and was always willing to lend his considerable influence and experience to causes he believed in.
Sir Jim’s passing leaves an enormous void, but there is comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue.
The inspirational work of Friends of ANCHOR will carry on supporting thousands of people affected by cancer and blood disorders, while the transformational projects being undertaken by the Balmoral family office will continue investing in businesses and giving back to communities.
That commitment to making a difference, driven by the same values that shaped Balmoral Group from the outset, is perhaps the greatest tribute of all.
Jim's story is one of ambition, hard work, resilience and generosity. It is also a reminder of what people from this corner of Scotland can achieve when they believe in themselves and in the potential of their home region.
On behalf of the Chamber community, I extend our deepest sympathies to Lady Milne, Jim's family, friends and colleagues.
Aberdeen has lost a giant. But what he built, and what he stood for, will endure.