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 United Auctions is investing in its sales division in the West of Scotland by recruiting a new trainee livestock auctioneer.
Scotland’s leading livestock auctioneers and procurement specialists have recruited Niall MacKinnon to train in-house and through distance learning as a livestock auctioneer.
A native Gaelic speaker who was born and bred on the Isle of Tiree, Niall will be based at Oban and will cover the West of Scotland, comprising Argyll, the islands and dealing with customers from Barra and South Uist on the mainland. He will work under the management of experienced auctioneer Donald Morrison, who will act as a mentor to provide training and support as Niall works towards a BA qualification in Livestock Auctioneering from the University of Central Lancashire.
19-year-old Niall will gain experience in all aspects of livestock sales and marketing including the auctioneering and valuing of non-agricultural related items such as cars, personal items, property and land. Once qualified, he will be encouraged to become a member of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland.
Before joining United Auctions, Niall worked for John Irvine & Sons, Inverlochy, gaining experience in the general management of both commercial herds and pedigree Charolais cows, including preparing and training animals for shows and sale.
Niall’s recruitment adds to the four new trainee livestock auctioneers who started in autumn last year. It marks the company’s continued commitment to bringing in new and young talent to sustain the business into the future.
Other recent investments made in the West of Scotland include the improvement of the facility at Islay. The agricultural community now benefits from an improved auction ring complete with internal metal pens, improving health and safety standards.
The company, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, is also exploring upgrading the market at Dalmally to meet modern bio-security and health and safety standards. Niall MacKinnon said: “For as long as I can remember I have been interested in all aspects of agricultural and land-based activities. I think it’s in my blood – my grandfather, Lachlan MacKinnon was a livestock agent in Tiree working for Thomas Corsons. I’ve wanted to pursue a career in agriculture since school so to get the chance to work for one of the most successful company’s in the area is a great opportunity.” Donald Morrison, Regional Managing Director for the West of Scotland, said: “It’s rare that a young lad has such a natural flair and all-round ability like Niall. He’s genuinely interested in all livestock, which is a huge plus point for our small team as we all have to be adaptable and work together, dealing with all aspects of livestock, office and yard work. We noticed Niall’s potential when he worked for us during the summer holidays when he was younger. He’s from the area, knows the terrain and the people and is used to travelling from island to island so we jumped at the chance to bring his talent on board for the benefit of the West of Scotland.”
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