Johnston Carmichael Celebrated as Moray’s Main Business of the Year

More than 400 business representatives gathered for the Moray Chamber of Commerce’s 20th Annual Business Awards Dinner, the largest black-tie event in Moray, to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the region’s business community. Held once again in the spectacular grounds of Gordon Castle, the evening culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Moray Main Business Award to Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants.

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

Founded in Moray in 1936, Johnston Carmichael has grown into a leading independent UK accountancy and business advisory firm. With over 100 people now based at its new state-of-the-art Elgin office, the firm remains firmly rooted in the region while also operating throughout the UK, and worldwide as part of the Moore Global network—which connects more than 37,000 professionals in over 115 countries.

The firm offers a full range of services including accounting, audit, tax, corporate finance, consulting and more, and is widely recognised for its expertise across sectors such as food & drink, technology & life sciences, rural, financial services, and energy, infrastructure & sustainability. In recent years Johnston Carmichael has won multiple national industry awards and been shortlisted for others, reflecting its strong reputation for innovation and excellence.

Beyond client service, Johnston Carmichael is deeply committed to its people and communities. In 2025, the firm was officially certified as a Great Place to Work and featured in the UK’s Best Workplaces for Development and Best Workplaces for Women. With dedicated early careers pathways, Masters-level leadership programmes, and community initiatives such as the JC Impact Fund and long-standing support of the Kiltwalk, the firm demonstrates its purpose of creating enduring impact for people, businesses, and society.

Lynne Walker, CEO of Johnston Carmichael, said: “Winning the Main Business Award here in Moray means a great deal to us. Not only is Elgin my home office, but Moray is where Johnston Carmichael’s story began nearly nine decades ago, so 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 the people and businesses who have supported us along the way and who will continue to shape our future."

Sarah Medcraf, Chief Executive of Moray Chamber of Commerce, said:
“Johnston Carmichael is a business that embodies what it means to be both global and local. From their roots here in Moray almost 90 years ago, they have grown into one of the UK’s most respected advisory firms, yet they remain deeply committed to their people, their values, and their community. Their investment in Moray, their culture of developing talent, and their vision for long-term impact make them a very worthy winner of this year’s Main Business Award.”

The evening also featured an inspiring keynote address and raised funds for this year’s chosen charity Step By Step in Moray which provides vital support and services across Moray. Step by Step in Moray is a parental support charity that provides a lifeline to expectant parents and parents with children up to the age of 3, particularly those experiencing domestic abuse, poverty, addiction, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social isolation.  Guests contributed generously, underlining the strong spirit of community that the Moray business sector is known for.

The annual dinner is Moray Chamber of Commerce’s biggest fundraiser and would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors including The Family of Sir Jim Walker, Northport, Good Highland Food, Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants, MJD Systems, Balfour Beatty, Glasgow School of Art, SSEN Transmission, Brodie Countryfare, Forsyths, Diageo and Gordon Castle  Many other local businesses supported the event through purchasing tickets, donating prizes, or contributing gift bag items. The support of Chamber members and Gold & Platinum Partners is gratefully acknowledged.

With another successful celebration concluded, Moray Chamber of Commerce is now turning its attention to the Festive Annual Awards Evening in December, where once again businesses of all sizes and sectors will be recognised for their contribution to Moray.