The Next Chapter: 10 Minutes with Craig Stewart

The Next Chapter: 10 Minutes with Craig Stewart

What do you think has allowed the business to stand the test of time? 
Being consistent with our core values (high-quality works, building strong client relationships) being able to move with the times and keeping your business current.

 You joined Darroch & Allan in 2001 as a trainee quantity surveyor. What do you remember about those early days? 
Technology certainly wasn’t as far advanced as it is today. A lot of photocopying and faxing back then. It makes me wonder what we ever did without smart phones. The company was also a lot smaller in stature back in 2001 and we were not undertaking projects of the same magnitude but that was all part of the growth. 

You became Director in 2015 and Managing Director in April 2025. What has that journey taught you about leadership? 
Becoming MD in 2025 was a bit of an eye opener compared to before as a lot more decision making landed at my door. In terms of leadership, I just aim to continue to set a good example at work everyday in the hope that others will follow. I find being a good listener helps.

What are you most proud of from your time with the business so far? 
On a personal level to start as a trainee QS back in 2001 and to progress to MD in 2025 is not something I would have ever imagined at the start of this journey. Beyond that just to be involved in so many different projects and dealing with all the different clients and building those relationships over the years. 

What role has the team played in reaching this 60-year milestone?
No business can function or last without the involvement of every person in the company, they all play their part whatever their role might be. Ultimately you could argue the employees “on the tools” play the most pivotal role as it is their quality workmanship that leads to future work.

What does it mean to be a long -standing Moray business? 
Very proud to be part of a long-standing Moray business. So many businesses come and go due to varying factors but to still be trading after 60 years, through all the “ups and downs” is a fantastic achievement. 

Finally, what does the next chapter look like for Darroch & Allan? 
If the business can do half as well as it did under Andrew’s stewardship, then we won’t go far wrong but ultimately, we do have ambitions for continued growth, maintaining those long standing client relationships and forging new ones.