A leading independent whisky bottler and cask management specialist has appointed its first chief executive officer. Aceo Limited, an Edinburgh-based firm established 25 years ago, has revealed George McNeil – former managing director of retail at cashmere brand Johnstons of Elgin – in the post. The highly-respected luxury goods expert has been charged with the task of spearheading growth.
The announcement comes as Aceo launches ambitious plans, including the revival of Speyside’s historic Dallas Dhu Distillery which was built in 1898 but has been closed since 1983. Founder and managing director of Aceo, Edward Odim, will transition into the role of chairman. George McNeil is a former managing director at world-renowned cashmere brand Johnstons of Elgin.
[Ross Johnston/Newsline Media] He also chaired the internal Sustainability Group, which supported the delivery of Johnstons of Elgin becoming a B-Corp. It is anticipated that his passion for whisky, which was showcased in his recent role as chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, will position him perfectly to lead Aceo in the next chapter of its history. Commenting on his new role, George said: ‘After 17 wonderful years at world-renowned luxury Speyside textiles company Johnstons of Elgin, I am looking forward to this next chapter where I can combine my experience of retail, sustainable Scottish luxury and importantly, whisky, to build on Aceo’s record and develop the premiumisation and global reach of .