SCOTLAND’S “businesswomen of the year” has been appointed as the sole director of the country’s largest independent courier firm to oversee further growth in the industry.

Fiona Deas, who is aiming to help pave they way for improved female representation in the sector, will take full charge at Eagle Couriers following the retirement of her business partner, Jerry Stewart.

Having been with the company for more than 22 years, Deas’s appointment comes less than a year after landing the title of “Business Woman of the Year” at The Scottish Women’s Awards 2018.

Stewart stepped down from his role after more than 30 years with the Bathgate-headquartered firm, 13 of which were served as Deas’s co-director following a management buy-out in 2006.

His departure comes after the business’ recent growth, spurred by acquisitions of baggage repatriation company THS Couriers in 2017 and Surrey-based Wey Group International in 2018.

Deas hopes her appointment will encourage other woman to opt for a career in the transport industry.

She said: “I am proud to take over the reins at Eagle Couriers and continue to lead the company to more growth.

“I’ve worked in a lot of different roles over the years, but I wouldn’t be doing what I do now if I wasn’t passionate about it.

“The constant transformation of the courier industry is hugely exciting and it’s gratifying to know that you’re respected and trusted as a female leader in a male-dominated sector.

“I’m thrilled to see what the next few years will bring and I want to set an example for other women who aspire to break into the world of transport.”

Joining Eagle Couriers at the age of 36 as a manager in the Glasgow depot, Stewart rose up the ranks, eventually playing an integral part in the management buy-out.

The continued growth of the Scottish firm has seen its combined fleet grow to more than 185 vehicles throughout the country.

Stewart, reflecting on his retirement, said: “When I started in 1988, I would have never imagined myself at Eagle Couriers 30 years on, spearheading the growth of the company alongside Deas.

“I have seen the transport industry change a great deal since the early boom years and I’ve developed a true passion for it. It’s been a pleasure to help the firm hit so many significant milestones over the years, building robust credentials and reputation amongst Scotland and the rest of UK’s transport industry and playing a key role in all types of business.

“Our ethos of service has always been strong. Expanding the team and training a fleet of drivers and operators committed to our values and customer service excellence has been a highlight of the job.”

He predicts a bright future for the firm: “I have no doubt that Eagle Couriers will continue to boost its growth and expand operations. The company is left in remarkably capable hands with Deas.

“We have proven time and time again that Eagle can adapt to tough changes and challenging conditions in the market, always building up in a sustainable way.

“It will be gratifying to continue watching the company’s future successes from the sidelines. It’s been an amazing journey.”

Stewart was recognised as an industry leader by the Institute of Couriers and elected as a Fellow in 2015, receiving the title at a prestigious gowning ceremony held in the House of Lords.

Deas added: “Jerry is an exemplary figure in the UK’s transport industry with a great deal of hands-on expertise. He’s been a pillar of the company and played an integral part in its evolution into a modern, flourishing business and we wish him well in his retirement.”