Atkinson has joined Grundon charged with the strategic leadership, management and development of the Estates, Aggregates, and PED (Projects Engineering & Design) departments.
His responsibilities include the asset management of an extensive and diverse estate, improving income generation, enhancing capital value and delivering changes to the physical estate to support the operational teams; including the acquisition of mineral reserves to sustain and expand Grundon Sand & Gravel.
Forty-one-year-old Atkinson, who has a degree in Land Economy from the University of Aberdeen, moved from his previous role as operations director with a regional waste management company.
Before these roles he was a property director at the fast-growing German supermarket chain Lidl.
Atkinson said: “I’m delighted to join a company with an international reputation for quality, service and innovation – gained through 90 years of service to our loyal and valued customer base. I look forward to working with colleagues to build on that proud tradition and continuing our growth into new markets and territories through the adoption of innovation.
“I firmly believe the waste sector is uniquely positioned to help consumers and businesses achieve sustainable growth through the adoption of new technologies and professional standards.”
Grundon managing director Clayton Sullivan-Webb commented: “We welcome Philip at an exciting time, when our business is continuing to expand through organic growth, strategic acquisitions and technical innovation.
“We’re confident Philip will help us to achieve our goals and look forward to a bright future with him as part of our leadership team.”
Atkinson is also tasked with identifying new locations, prioritising development opportunities and exploring new technologies. His experience as a parliamentary researcher in both the Scottish and Westminster parliaments is of significant benefit in his current role.
Away from work, and before moving south to take on his new role at Grundon, Atkinson was active in the Royal Commonwealth Society and served as Secretary to the Friends of Mercer Art Gallery. He has also previously undertaken two operational tours with the British Army.
