Alex Banks

2 weeks ago | pressandjournal.co.uk | Alex Banks

The boss of popular Inverness hotel The Chieftain said she has had one of the hardest weeks of her life as she prepares for her last day in charge. Liz Lawson took on the venue in 2012 as a short stay, however has been in charge ever since. Now, she feels it’s the right time to move on, and has set her last day in charge tomorrow. New owners will take over from Liz as she looks forward to some time off and a first “stress-free” holiday in two decades.

2 weeks ago | pressandjournal.co.uk | Alex Banks

Elgin whisky maker Gordon & MacPhail’s chief executive has left his role after one year. Phillip White joined the firm in April last year and said the decision to step away from the role comes with “mixed emotions”. A spokeswoman for Gordon & MacPhail confirmed chair of the board Neil Urquhart will become acting chief executive. Mr White said he leaves with “immense pride” in what he and the whisky maker have achieved together.

2 weeks ago | pressandjournal.co.uk | Alex Banks

A well-known Aberdeenshire businessman will create up to 20 new jobs by opening a construction firm branch in the north-east. Ian Skene will head up operations of Latvian company Rebarmat’s new UK distribution and sales. The company manufactures glass fibre reinforced polymer rebar, a sustainable alternative to steel rebar. Its products will be available to the UK construction and onshore and offshore wind markets for the first time.

2 weeks ago | pressandjournal.co.uk | Alex Banks

Invergordon will welcome its largest cruise ship of the year today – carrying more passengers than the town’s population. Sailing under the Panama flag, MSC Preziosa was built 12 years ago, costing around £450 million. The vessel made its maiden visit to the Highlands in 2017 and is now returning for a fifth time. Preziosa features 18 decks and accommodation for up to 4,345 passengers as well as 1,370 crew. The population of Invergordon sat at around 3,890 in 2020.

2 weeks ago | pressandjournal.co.uk | Alex Banks

It’s fair to say Aberdeen firm Wood has faced more than a few crises in recent years. Seven years ago, Wood was valued at more than £5 billion and, as part of expansion plans, had just acquired one of its biggest rivals. But numerous issues, including financial reports, inappropriate management pressure and contract problems, have caused a serious downfall.