Ayr Rugby Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Brian Calder as Commercial Director. The opportunity was created by the resignation of David Beattie, who will still be involved in the club in an advisory capacity.
David Beattie joined the board in March 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from his business and sporting background and has helped the club develop its income streams. David recently moved with his partner to the east coast of Scotland, which has made the role impractical due to logistics.
Brian Calder brings over 42 years of experience in retail, wholesale, and distribution, including owning and running a local Pub Group. Brian was also the owner and Managing Director of Wallace’s Express, CEO of Tennent’s Brewery and a Director of Inverarity Morton.
Brian attended Millbrae from the age of 14 and was captain of Ayr Academy’s 1st XV. When work allowed, Brian played for Ayr’s senior teams between 1975 and 1986 and was part of the team that won the inaugural Trade Sevens. While owning a local business, Brian was a sponsor and supporter of Ayr Rugby Club and feels that the time has come to give something back to the club and local community.
Ayr RFC Chairman, Brian Williamson, said, “As a club, we are fortunate to have so many members, supporters and sponsors that make us what we are, a successful community-focused sports club with a rich heritage and a great future. Since incorporation, we have been able to build a voluntary Board of Directors with a mix of skills and experience that covers rugby, community, marketing, business, accountancy and commerce. Brian Calder is a great addition to the board and has unrivalled knowledge of business and the licensed trade in Scotland. I would also like to thank David Beattie for his tremendous service to the club over the past 15 months.”
