Katoni Engineering picked up the Family Business award at this year's Northern Star Business Awards, and were presented by the title sponsor Royal Bank of Scotland.
Katoni is a second-generation engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) business owned by the Maclean family.
It was founded and is owned by John Maclean while dad, Donnie Maclean, who was previously owner of Maclean Electricals, is chairman.
The business primarily supports the offshore oil and gas industry but has begun to diversify into other sectors including renewables and utilities. It considers itself unusual in the market in that it delivers fixed-price solutions which share risk and rewards with its clients.
The firm believes its clear focus on young people and growing its own talent has proved critical to avoid the merry go round of the Aberdeen jobs market.
Every employee under 30, or those entering work as a “mature” team member, have a three-year work-based development plan which focuses on a mix of technical/ discipline, business and soft skills.
All other individuals have a five-year plan to help them grow personally and within the company.
The last 12 months has been a seminal period for Katoni. In 2021/22, it doubled in size and turnover and continued that growth by a further 60% the following year and increased headcount to 65 FTE.
The firm secured its first major offshore manpower contract for a UKCS operator creating a new business line and opportunity for growth.
The company’s profitability means it has been able to give back to its home city, including the regeneration of a Queens Road townhouse as its HQ. It also supported a new youth national football tournament since 2017 – the Katoni Cup – and has announced a partnership to support Aberdeen Football Club Charity Trust as its charitable partner.
The Finalists
- Amity Fish Company
- Craig International Ltd
- PMC Property Management & Lettings
- WM Donald
Click here to view the finalists video.
About the sponsor
RBS is a major retail and commercial bank in Scotland and offers many services including loans, mortgages, financial advice and foreign exchange.