Bio

Chairman of DJ Laing Group and Company Founder.

From the age of 15, David worked on a farm at Pitskelly, joining D Geddes a year later as a time served JCB driver.  Gathering a wealth of experience over the next years as Plant Operator with Charles Gray and then Fraser Construction, in construction contracts, groundworks, recycling, commercial and housing developments, David then went on to set up DJ Laing (Contracts) Ltd in 1975.

Although now retired, David now provides an advisory service to the DJ Laing Group, with a clear vision on the future direction of the companies.

Achievements include purchasing Ballumbie Farm land in 1996 and which was developed it into a nursing home, alongside 220 homes  and an 18 hole Golf Course by a third party. 1999 saw the refurbishment of an old jute mill on Panmure Industrial Estate into the award-winning DJ Laing World Headquarters, overlooking Carnoustie’s championship Golf Course.

The success of the business has been mainly due to the founder’s foresight and vision which produced a maximum turnover of £15M.  Dave Laing had ambition to develop and expand and was not afraid to take calculated business risks to succeed.  He has worked extremely hard and diversified where he saw opportunities and his vision has ensured the success of the group of businesses.  He has been true to his roots and supports his workforce and local community.  His tenacity meant D J Laing survived the recession when most other long standing, well established construction businesses went into liquidation.  The Company is renowned for it’s quality and this is due to Dave’s fierce determination and directive ‘to get it right first time’.

David sponsors and supports CarnoustiePanmure Football Club, is a former Chairman of Carnoustie Panmure JFC and former Board Member of Wood Recycling Association.

David Laing's Highlights

Testimonials

Professionally Dave has been great to deal with always straight to the point, no messing, trustworthy and never a dull moment.

Iain McGouldrick, Persimmon Homes

Having worked with Dave for a number of years I have always found him to be a big personality unambiguous, tough but very fair.

Ian Macdonald, Divisional Director, Brewin Dolphin

From one man and one lorry to a successful civil engineering, waste management and house building companies. All down to your hard work drive and dedication to be the best you can be. A positive view of life, honesty, odd bit of business good fortune and of course the support of family, friends, staff and the professionals. What a journey.

Gordon Pyper, Planning Consultant

David Laing must be one of the nicest customers a company could ever wish to deal with. Over the years I have known David, He has enjoyed our hospitality in Japan, France, Italy and various other locations. But unlike most other customers David has probably given back even more hospitality in return. What a fantastic man it has been a pleasure to be associated with David.

Rick Morris, CASE Construction
Articles

Sponsorship pledge is music to festival’s ears

An amazing line-up of quality bands from all over Scotland…
Read More

At the forefront of wood recycling

D J Laing became a pioneer for timber recycling and…
Read More

DJ Laing Homes Celebrates 30th Anniversary

The business is part of the D J Laing Group…
Read More

Contact David Laing