Elgin accountancy firm Johnston Carmichael named Moray Chamber’s Main Business of the Year

An Elgin-based accountancy firm with a global reach has won Moray’s most prestigious business title.

More than 400 people attended the Moray Chamber of Commerce’s 20th annual awards dinner in the grounds of Gordon Castle, Fochabers, to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the region’s business community.

Chamber chief executive, Sarah Medcraf, praised Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants for their “long-term impact” as they were crowned Moray’s Main Business of the Year.

She said: “Their investment in Moray, their culture of developing talent, and their vision for long-term impact, make them a very worthy winner.”

Sponsored by the family of the late Sir Jim Walker, the award was presented by Alastair Walker, who handed the copper pagoda donated by Forsyths to Johnston Carmichael CEO, Lynne Walker.

She said: “To be recognised by our local business community is very special.

“As we look ahead to our 90th birthday next year, this award is a great reminder of the strength of our roots and history, as well as a thank you to those who have supported us along the way and who will continue to shape our future."

Founded in Moray in 1936, Johnston Carmichael is a leading independent business advisory firm.

With more than 100 employees in Elgin, the firm now operates as part of the Moore Global network - connecting more than 37,000 professionals in over 115 countries.

Johnston Carmichael is recognised for expertise across sectors such as food and drink, technology and life sciences, rural, financial services, and energy, infrastructure and sustainability.

In recent years it has won national industry awards and been shortlisted for others. This year, the firm was certified as a great place to work and featured in the UK’s Best Workplaces for Development and Best Workplaces for Women.

Moray Chamber’s annual dinner raised funds for this year’s chosen charity, Step By Step in Moray.

The parental support charity provides a lifeline to expectant parents and parents with children up to the age of three, particularly those experiencing domestic abuse, poverty, addiction, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social isolation.

The annual dinner - the largest black-tie event in Moray - is the Chamber’s biggest fundraiser. Attention now turns to the business group’s festive annual awards evening in December.