Rooted in Tradition, Driven by Compassion

John A. Ferguson Appointed Chairman of GEM

At HF Group, our commitment to the community isn’t just a policy on a page; it is a lived value. We believe that as we grow as a business, we have a responsibility to uplift the people and places that surround us.

It is with great pride that we announce our Mechanical & Electrical Managing Director, John A. Ferguson, has officially taken over the role of Chairman of the Glasgow Eastern Merchants & Tradesmen’s Society (GEM), succeeding Jim Roulston.

A Legacy of Support

Founded in the early 19th century, GEM was established by a collective of forward-thinking merchants and tradesmen who understood that a thriving city requires a foundation of compassion and mutual support. For over a century, the Society has focused its efforts on the East End of Glasgow, providing vital funding, resources, and support to individuals and community projects.

John’s appointment as Chairman is a natural fit, rooted in a long-standing dedication to the Society’s mission. While this marks a new chapter, it is also a return to familiar territory; this is the second time John has held the position, having first taken on the role of Chairman in 2005. As a leader in one of Scotland’s most established family-run engineering firms, John understands the deep link between industry and community.

“It is a true honour to take the helm at GEM once again. This society was built by tradesmen who wanted to make a meaningful impact, and that is a spirit we hold very dear at HF. I look forward to working with the members to continue empowering aspirations across the East End and beyond.”
John A. Ferguson, Chairman of GEM & Managing Director at HF Mechanical & Electrical

Realising Social Value

This appointment is another key example of how members of HF are giving their time and expertise to drive Social Value. Our ESG strategy is built on four key pillars, and John’s work with GEM touches on all of them:

• Community Engagement: Partnering with local projects to ensure the East End remains a place where everyone has the chance to thrive.
• Skills-Based Volunteering: Bringing high-level leadership and strategic planning to a charitable organisation.
• Charitable Initiatives: Overseeing the distribution of funding to those who need it most.
• Regional Economic Contribution: Supporting the social fabric that allows local businesses and residents to prosper.

A Shared Mission

GEM’s mission of uplifting lives and fostering positive social change mirrors HF Group’s own history. From our humble beginnings in Glasgow to our nationwide presence today, we have never forgotten the importance of the “tradesman’s bond.”

Whether it is through staff volunteer initiatives, sponsorships, or senior leadership roles in historic societies like GEM, HF Group remains “A Company Well Connected” to its roots.

We would like to extend our congratulations to John on this appointment.