Johnstons of Elgin appoint a Chief Executive…

Johnstons of Elgin will next month welcome on board Simon Cotton as its new chief executive. Mr Cotton, a Strathclyde University graduate, has worked recently as a divisional managing director at Swiss conglomerate Franke.

Ian Urquhart, chairman of Johnstons of Elgin, said: “Johnstons are delighted to welcome Simon on board. His experience of leadership in an international manufacturing business combined with marketing and business development skills are a great fit for us.
Following a challenging year in 2012, the business performance has stabilised in 2013 and we look forward to Simon helping us return to growth in 2014 and beyond.”

The company’s plant in Elgin, which employs about 450 people, manufactures woven products including scarves and shawls, and continues Johnstons’ long tradition of producing cloth, which is used in the likes of interior furnishings and jackets. The Hawick plant, which employs about 250 people, produces knitted products including jumpers, gloves, hats and socks.

Willie Finlayson of FWB commented, “Johnstons of Elgin is a truly iconic Scottish business with wonderful heritage and there was significant interest in the appointment.  We wish Simon all the very best.”