Murray inducted posthumously into
Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame

For immediate release—March 3, 2010
HALIFAX—You could say that Bruce Murray spent his entire career, beginning at age six, devoted to the successful evolution of Advocate Printing, one of this region’s most accomplished commercial printing companies. And those who best knew him would attribute his entrepreneurial sense, quiet and patient determination and personal commitment to service and fairness, as the reasons behind his lifelong success as a leading entrepreneur. Bruce Murray is being recognized posthumously as he is inducted into the Junior Achievement Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame this year.

Born in 1941 in Pictou, Murray’s entry into the world of printing started early in life. At age six, he began working as a paperboy for the Pictou Advocate, then owned by his father, George C. Murray. His mother Nonie was also involved with the newspaper, writing weekly columns. Eventually, Murray worked through the ranks of newspaper production, with jobs including janitor, printer’s devil, press operator, advertising manager, and finally: president.

The company was sold following his father’s death in 1962, and between 1965 and 1989 Advocate experienced numerous employee and ownership transitions, during which Murray bought into the partnership. By the end of the 80s, Murray co-owned Advocate Printing and Publishing with Dirk VanVeen. Under the leadership of Murray and VanVeen, Advocate’s focus shifted to commercial printing, and the company grew by leaps and bounds. Not afraid to take risks and experiment with new technologies and opportunities, Advocate was recognized regionally as a leadingedge print facility.

In 1994, Murray bought out his last partner. Advocate Printing and Publishing flourished under his leadership, forging into new marketplaces beyond Nova Scotia, adding new services and technology, leading the trend into the full service marketplace, and averaging an impressive 20% annual growth rate.

These ongoing successes are thanks in no small part to the vision and drive of the man at the helm. Murray’s negotiating skills were legendary. He always conducted his debates with mutual respect and a smile. Maintaining the principle that every negotiation should be win-win, he managed to influence the entire North American paper market from his spot on the map in Pictou, Nova Scotia.

One of his greatest accomplishments was in developing Advocate to become the largest commercial printer in Atlantic Canada, but no matter how large the company or broad the vision, he never wavered in his steadfast support for the imperative of community newspapers. During his career, he was honoured by the Canadian Community Newspaper Association (for which he also served as a director), with the Silver Quill Award and prestigious Lifetime Membership Award; he led the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association and was a director of the International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors.

Bruce Murray was also a community builder. By offering his leadership and resources, he contributed to community and economic development, culture, recreation, health and religion. The list of beneficiaries is significant, including thePictou County Chamber of Commerce, the Pictou County Tourism Association, the Colchester Hospital Foundation, YM-YWCA, Pictou County United Way, Pictou County Big Brothers Big Sisters, Neptune Theatre School and the d’Coste Entertainment Centre. The Bruce F. Murray Family Foundation was introduced in
2004 as a way to recognize and carry on Murray’s interest in supporting local and international efforts.

To the many business leaders and fellow employees who sought Bruce’s company and counsel, he was considered a trusted advisor, a supportive partner and a friend. He had great love and respect for those around him. His sharp wit and sarcasm immediately broke the ice and endeared him to those he met. He was equally comfortable in corporate boardrooms as he was working alongside his Advocate family on the plant floor.

He was an innovator and a mentor, who believed in rural development and built a solid business that continues to thrive. With 490 employees, Advocate is one of Pictou County’s largest employers, and at the time of Murray’s death in 2004, Advocate Printing and Publishing consisted of 22 publications including newspapers, trade magazines, and specialty publications as well as a full suite of printing and publishing services. His personal impact on his community goes deeper than numbers and lists: his dedication to the long-term economic success of his community has created the most enduring legacy.

Bruce Murray was a best friend to his wife Shirley. To his children - Jock, Chris, Sean, Jill and Jeanne - he was their role model and most proud and passionate supporter.

Bruce Murray’s induction into the Junior Achievement Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame will be accepted on his behalf by his family on June 10, 2010 at the World Trade & Convention Centre, Halifax.

The Junior Achievement Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame is the province's premier business networking event as it recognizes the accomplishments of business leaders in Nova Scotia. Funds raised at the event support Junior Achievement educational programs which focus on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness.

Since 1993, the Hall of Fame event has raised nearly $1.75 million for Junior Achievement in Nova Scotia. This year's induction dinner is being held on Thursday, June 10 at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. To order tickets, please contact Lynn Coveyduck at (902) 454-4564. The Hall of Fame event is presented by Colour.
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For more information on Bruce Murray please contact:
Jill Murray
Corporate Communications
Advocate
Halifax Telephone: 902 455 2870
Cell: 902 499 9697
jillm@advocateprinting.ns.ca

For more information on Junior Achievement of Nova Scotia, please contact:
Lynn Coveyduck
President & CEO
Junior Achievement of Nova Scotia
(902) 454-4564