Edrington chairman Norman Murray to retire

Edrington’s chairman Norman Murray will retire at the end of July and will be succeeded by current non-executive director Crawford Gillies.

Edrington chairman Norman Murray (pictured) will be succeeded by Crawford Gillies at the end of July

Murray, who took up the role in 2013, will step down at the company’s annual general meeting on 26 July 2017.

Gillies, who joined Edrington earlier this year, is also a non executive director on the boards of SSE and Barclays, where he chairs the remuneration committee. He also founded The Saltire Foundation, which helps develop entrepreneurial leadership in Scotland.

“I am very pleased to announce that Crawford will take over the chairmanship of Edrington and know that his extensive international business experience will be invaluable to the company and I wish him all the very best,” said Murray.

“During my five years with Edrington I have thoroughly enjoyed working with this unique company. It has been a privilege to work with so many great people who have driven commercial success and simultaneously promoted the values that set Edrington apart.

“I am confident that they will build on that success and wish them continued success in their future endeavours.”

Edrington chief executive, Ian Curle, said: “My colleagues and I have very much enjoyed working with Norman. He has chaired our board with distinction and we will miss his wise counsel and his positive encouragement.

“I would like to thank him for his commitment and dedication to Edrington and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

Last month, Edrington saw its full-year profits soar by 32% to hit £91 million in 2016/17, reflecting the impact of the fall in value of sterling.