Family-owned scotch whisky company Gordon & MacPhail has appointed Richard Urquhart as its new Sales Director. The fourth-generation member of the Urquhart family steps into the role after serving six months as interim Sales Director, following more than 15 years with the company.
Prior to this appointment, Richard held several positions across the business, most recently as Head of Sales for the Americas region. His international travel has been instrumental in building and maintaining crucial relationships with distributors and customers worldwide.
Many of these business relationships extend back 60 years to the second generation of the Urquhart family. These connections, nurtured by the third generation and now by Richard as part of the fourth generation, form a cornerstone of the company’s business philosophy.
Gordon & Macphail’s Strategic Growth Plans
In his new role, Richard will focus on delivering the company’s ambitious long-term plans by growing sales of their distinctive spirit brands globally. These include Gordon & MacPhail, The Cairn, and Benromach.
“Building and nurturing strong relationships is fundamental to the success of our business – a value that Richard shares and embodies in his role at Gordon & MacPhail,” said Phillip White, Chief Executive of Gordon & MacPhail. “He is already a huge asset to our team, and we are delighted to see him step into the position of Sales Director on a permanent basis.”
White added: “It is an exciting time for the company as we look to the future of our brands, continuing to grow their presence internationally as well as investing closer to home, too.”
Richard expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating: “I look forward to continued collaboration with my colleagues and trade partners, as we work together to further build a successful family business committed to inspiring enthusiasts around the world to discover, appreciate and enjoy the finest single malt whiskies and highest quality spirits.”
Recent Investments
The appointment comes amid several investments by the company. In March 2025, Gordon & MacPhail opened a new temporary retail space and whisky tasting room at Johnstons of Elgin on Newmill Road, offering a modern and immersive whisky experience for visitors.
In 2022, the company inaugurated its second whisky distillery, The Cairn, located in the Cairngorms National Park. The distillery became operational in May 2022 before opening to the public that October.
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