Moray whisky maker Gordon & MacPhail’s chief executive Phillip White steps down
The chief executive of Gordon & MacPhail has stepped away from the whisky firm after less than 18 months.
Phillip White, who was appointed to the role at the start of last year, stated on social media that he was moving back to south of England for personal reasons.
Mr White said: “This decision comes with mixed emotions — gratitude for a truly fulfilling experience, and excitement for what lies ahead.
“When I first joined G&M, our family’s plan was to relocate to Elgin permanently.
“As a deeply rooted, community-first business, G&M’s presence in Elgin is more than symbolic — it’s foundational to the company’s identity, ethos and values.
“However, due to a (positive) change in our family’s circumstances, remaining in Elgin is no longer practical for us.
“We’ve made the difficult decision to relocate back down to the south-east.
“That said, I leave with immense pride in what we’ve achieved together over the past year.
“I’ve had the privilege of leading a talented and passionate team through a period of transformation, intelligent innovation and profitability, while building on the company’s rich heritage and strengthening its future foundations.”
Neil Urquhart, the family firm’s chairman, will now become acting chief executive.
The company owns Benromach Distillery in Forres and The Cairn Distillery in Grantown.
It is currently also undertaking a multi-million-pound makeover of its store on South Street. Begun three years ago, the work is now scheduled to finish in 2026.
A temporary replacement store subsequently had to close in February after the St Giles Shopping Centre went into administration.
The company responded by renovating an outbuilding at Johnstons of Elgin in just six weeks and opening a second replacement store.
A spokesperson for Gordon & MacPhail said: “I can confirm that Phillip White, chief executive at Gordon & MacPhail has left the business to pursue other opportunities and interests.
“Neil Urquhart, chair of the board, has in the meantime stepped into the role of acting chief executive.”
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