A HOLIDAY parks business is to pass its chairmanship on to the fifth generation of its founding family.

Hoburne Group, founded in 1912, announced that chairman Rosie Kennar would step down after more than 18 years.

She will be succeeded by her son, John Butters.

The Christchurch-based business has been led by a family member since its beginnings in 1912. It said the boards of Hoburne Ltd and sister company Burry & Knight Ltd had “given considerable thought” over two years to finding the right person.

Rosie Kennar said: “The greatest challenge for family businesses of all shapes and sizes to overcome is that of succession planning, and we have been mindful of the need to prepare for the future.

“In a long-established family business like ours, it was important to us that the best possible solution be a family member that would remain committed to our values, and I am delighted the boards unanimously approved John as my successor.”

Mr Butters has been a non-executive director of Hoburne Ltd since 2016 and was appointed to the Burry & Knight board last December.

The company said Hoburne had always been a part of his life, from family holidays to appearing in promotional photography and doing holiday jobs, including working on the grounds at Crane Valley Golf Club, Verwood.

He worked in the public sector and politics before becoming entering the world of finance as an analyst at Sand Aire, a family-owned business specialising in investment management for families and charities, becoming a portfolio manager for several clients.

He worked as an economic strategist for a start-up hedge fund before becoming head of investment at Aspinalls Family Office and is currently chief investment officer at Weatherbys Private Bank, a role he will continue while chairing Hoburne Group.

Mr Butters said: “This is a significant chapter for our family-run business, and I could not be more delighted to be appointed to the chair of the Hoburne Group.

“We are lucky to have a diverse business portfolio and an outstanding management team, both of which make this an exciting role to be stepping into.

“My mother and grandfather have created a wonderful culture of warmth, friendliness, and integrity, which combined with the superb quality and value for money we offer make Hoburne a very special place.

“My previous roles have provided me with a great understanding and passion for family business, and I hope to be able to add some of my own insight whilst ensuring we remain committed to our family values.”

Rosie Kennar added: “As a fifth-generation family member, John brings with him not only his impressive business experience but also the ‘breath of fresh air’ of a next generation that understands the values and priorities so vital for maintaining the momentum of success in our ever-changing world.”

Hoburne has eight holiday parks across the south and south west of England, plus three golf clubs under the Hoburne Golf brand and a residential and commercial development operation under Hoburne Development.