Distillery Team

John Campbell was named Laphroaig’s distillery manager in 2006, fulfilling a 12-year-old ambition. He is the first Ileach (native of Islay) to run Laphroaig in its 190-year history. Since joining Laphroaig in 1994, John has worked across the whole distilling process both at Laphroaig and in distilleries including Tormore, Miltonduff and Ardmore.

In July 2001 John returned from Speyside to take up the post as Laphroaig's Brewer. He has since taken the lead to upgrade the distillery and produce a number of successful limited edition bottlings to support the 'Feis Ile' (Gaelic for Islay Festival).

Vicky started as the Visitor Centre Manager at Laphroaig in 2008. This was a new post with the remit of developing the visitor experience in line with the Laphroaig's values and core vision of the distillery. Today we have around 25,000 visitors annually who make the pilgrimage to Islay from around the world. Thankfully, Vicky has led a team which have developed exciting and innovative experiences and currently Laphroaig is credited as a multi award winning Whisky Visitor attraction.

Arthur has lived on Islay all his life. His uncle also worked at Laphroaig before him so he is a real member of the Laphroaig family. Arthur works on the floor malting which is a very traditional skill. Laphroaig is only one of a handful of distilleries that continue this traditional process themselves. He is married with three daughters.

Caroline was born and brought up on Islay on a farm not far away on the “Oa”. Today much of this land is a famous bird sanctuary where you can see the giant Fish Eagles if you are lucky. Caroline has worked at the distillery since 1990 and manages the administration of the friends of Laphroaig as well as the daily tours. She can remember back in 1994 when the very first “Friends” were just hand written into a small book. Today with over 400,000 worldwide she has become very accomplished at managing the huge database of friends. But always has time to say hello to the many who pop in to see her in person.