Simon said: “I joined Johnstons of Elgin almost exactly eight years ago and it has been a tremendous privilege to be part of this amazing team. Coming out of the pandemic was the perfect time to review my future plans and I feel that now, after we have successfully navigated the last two challenging years, it is the perfect time for me to move on to new things. The shareholders and I share a love of the company and a belief that Johnstons will continue to prosper thanks to the strong succession that is in place. I will be watching the next steps for the company with excitement and pride.’
Chris Gaffney has served on the Board of Directors since he joined Johnstons of Elgin in 2011. He has held the roles of both Group Finance Director and Managing Director (Elgin Mill). Chris was born in Hawick where the brand has its Knitwear factory and grew up in Elgin.
Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole said: “Simon Cotton has not only led Johnstons of Elgin with incredible acumen and vision, but he has been a true champion of the British luxury sector. He has been a constant and determined advocate for all Walpole members offering wise counsel, laser sharp insight, and an unshakeable commitment to acting and speaking on the sector’s behalf. I speak for the whole Walpole team when I say that we hold a deep respect and fondness for Simon. He is an extraordinary leader.”
“I also want to say many congratulations to Chris Gaffney. Chris is a very worthy successor to the role of Chief Executive and I know that he will guide this remarkable brand to continued success.”
Johnstons of Elgin Chairman Jenny Urquhart said ‘Simon‘s strong and sincerely thoughtful leadership has steered us through an eight-year period with exceptional success. He’s inspired us all and he has carried out his job to great effect with a strong succession now in place to continue moving forwards. Simon leaves Johnstons with our sincere gratitude and warmest wishes’.
