Moray-based scotch whisky and premium spirits merchants Gordon & MacPhail is providing important job skills for young people, through a varied programme of apprenticeship placements across their business.
Established in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail matures and bottles some of the world’s rarest single malt whiskies; is the owner of Scotch whisky distilleries, Benromach and The Cairn; Scottish Gin brand, Red Door; and blended malt whisky brand, CRN57. Gordon & MacPhail’s products are enjoyed in over 40 international markets.
Notwithstanding its international growth the company remains rooted to the Moray community, employing over 150 people, the vast majority of whom live and work in the area. With several apprenticeships currently underway, Gordon & MacPhail is supporting new and existing staff with earn and learn training pathways, with tangible benefits for both staff and company.
Roles for all
As the business continues to grow, Gordon & MacPhail remains committed to developing its workforce and is currently engaged with five modern apprenticeships at their headquarters in Elgin: AAT Account Level 2 (finance); Business Administration Level 2 (international sales); Food & Drink Production & Processing Skills Level 2, Spirit Operations Level 3 and Food & Drink Distribution Level 2 ((operations in bottling hall, warehouse & distillery);
In addition, the whisky merchant has offered a progression pathway, with on-going training provided to upskill employees on the vocational aspects of their roles. The business’ most recent graduate apprenticeship placement saw a BSc (Hons) IT graduate successfully complete their Management for Business apprenticeship at the end of 2022.
Long-term investment
While the benefits to those undertaking apprenticeships are clear to see, the advantages for employers willing to invest are just as worthwhile.
Moira Stickle, HR manager, Gordon & MacPhail describes key benefits for the company as a “more skilled workforce with improved knowledge and understanding of our processes”.
She continues: “Apprenticeships offer employees opportunity to gain better knowledge – not only on what we do, but how we do it and most importantly why.
“We want to provide opportunities to upskill our current employees within our production, warehousing and distillery areas, as well as develop those we recruit from the wider market. This helps us ensure our workforce is as knowledgeable, skilled, and engaged with the business as possible, which ultimately has a positive impact on our bottom line.”
Working in Moray
With 95% of the company’s workforce based in Moray, it’s clear that the region is an attractive place to work, as well as live. A picturesque rural location, with access to mountains and coastlines, Moray provides those wishing to undertake apprenticeships in the region with a fantastic quality of life.
Moira explains: “There are many worthwhile career opportunities in Moray.
“Gordon & MacPhail is a long-established business over 127 years old. Working for a business with such a rich heritage in a location so spectacular is a real opportunity for apprentices looking for the right work/life balance.”
The business case
On why businesses in Moray should take on apprentices, Moira says: “We see apprentices as a key part of the recruitment pipeline of the company; they are an important part of our future. Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for a business to work in collaboration with key partners involved in the various apprenticeship programmes. Together, we put investment and effort into ensuring the apprentices get the education and skills needed to continuously improve and take the business forward.”
