Mr Gillies will step down from the Edrington board on 31 March 2025 after eight years’ service. During his tenure Edrington has seen sustained growth, with highlights including the opening of the new distillery at The Macallan in 2018 and core revenue rising to over £1 billion.

Mr Cockburn is a Chartered Accountant with an MBA from the IMD Business School in Switzerland and is an Honorary Professor at the University of Edinburgh. Prior to joining the Edrington board as a non-executive director in September 2020 he had a highly successful career as a CFO, senior finance officer and non-executive director with several major international companies. 

He was CFO of Serco Group plc and before that, CFO of Aggreko plc. He is currently chair of James Fisher & Sons plc, senior independent director of Ashtead Group plc and a non-executive director of BAE Systems plc.

Mr Gillies said: “It has been a privilege to chair Edrington and to witness the growth and resilience of the company and its world class portfolio of ultra-premium spirits.

“I have been impressed by the Giving More charitable ethos that is at the heart of the unique culture and values demonstrated by its extraordinary people around the world. 

“I wish Angus every success in his role as chair of Edrington and know his background as one of the UK’s most experienced CFOs and non-executive directors will be invaluable to Edrington in the coming years.”

Mr Cockburn added: “It is an honour to be taking over from Crawford as chair of Edrington, a unique business that has such a clear purpose in that it competes globally with some of the world’s best-known brands whilst being owned by a charitable trust, The Robertson Trust, and plays a significant role in Scotland’s economy.  

“Crawford leaves the business in good health, and I look forward to supporting the executive team as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.” 

Scott McCroskie, Edrington CEO, said: “Crawford has been an outstanding chair, helping to steer the company through a period of significant growth despite volatile trading conditions.

“The board and executive team are grateful for his dedicated service and the positive impact he has had on Edrington during his tenure. On a personal level I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Crawford and have learned a lot from him. 

“Angus has been a great support to the business as a non-executive director for the past four years and we are all delighted to welcome him as chair as Edrington faces into a more challenging trading environment.”