Meet Stuart Forbes

Stuart Forbes has been helping to make sure things run smoothly at Murdoch Allan for almost four years. As our Finance and Systems Manager, he keeps a close eye on our day-to-day operations from payroll to accounts. While he says no day is ever the same, we caught up with Stuart to find out what being part of Murdoch Allan means to him.

Can you tell us a bit about your role here?

I wear many hats on an average day, but my main functions are to oversee payroll for around 175 staff, the company’s finance functions and making sure all our IT systems run smoothly. The company is growing rapidly – with a new bakery acquisition in Dundee, expanding product lines, and increasing the number of supermarkets that we supply so it’s a busy role!

There is always a new project or something new to learn here at Murdoch Allan, like our onsite distillery – Still Spirited – where small batch high-quality craft Scottish gin and craft single malt Scottish vodka are distilled.

Owners Kat and Paul drive the business development and they have a great vision for the company and a clear plan on how best to deliver it.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

There are never two days the same! It’s fast-paced and there’s never a dull moment. It’s a small team in the office and everyone gets on well and jumps in to help each other to get things done.  It’s a great environment to be in and coming to work never feels like a chore.

If someone asked you to describe Murdoch Allan, what would you say?

It’s a really good local craft baker with a fantastic range of quality products. I would say to anyone new to the area that they need to try our Aberdeen Buttery. It’s a breakfast essential!

But you could pick any one of our products to try and not be disappointed.

What is your favourite Murdoch Allan product?

It’s really hard to pick one specific product! I’m probably more of a savoury person than sweet.

We have a pie of the month and some of these have been fantastic, steak and peppercorn pie and a chicken haggis and peppercorn sauce pie. Both were delicious.

For sweet I would have to say a pineapple danish or the shortbread. My kids love the chocolate truffles! They always pick that when I ask what treat they want.

We have such a great variety of products to offer, there is something for everyone.

When you’re not at work what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I’m a girl dad of two, so spare time isn’t something I have very much of, but when time allows, I’ll either be building something Halloween related in my garage or playing some Xbox.