Aberdeen’s Ian Massie set to retire in June

Investment trust experts heaped praise on Mr Massie, who is leaving after more than 30 years in the industry.

Chris Young, analyst at Westhouse Securities, said: “We are sad to see him go. We wish him a fond farewell and hope that he works as hard at enjoying his retirement as he has in promoting Aberdeen’s investment trusts.”

James Brown, analyst at Winterflood Securities, said Mr Massie had made a significant contribution to the investment trust industry. “We’ve certainly got a very high opinion of Ian and think he’s a great guy,” he said.

Paul Locke, analyst at Canaccord Adams, added Mr Massie is a “brilliant guy” and a “stalwart of the trust industry”.

Mr Massie will be succeeded by Andrew Leigh, currently a relationship manager responsible for business development and client relationship management for UK institutional clients.

Mr Massie first became part of the Aberdeen team when the firm bought Edinburgh Fund Managers in 2003. He has specialised in investment trust investor relations with both institutions and private client stockbrokers since 1994.

Prior to joining Edinburgh Fund Managers in 1985, he worked for Paull & Williamsons as assistant manager of the Scottish Northern investment trust.

Mr Leigh will move into his new role over the first few months of the year, the group said.