Meet the team
Stuart Brown
Co-founder, Managing Director & Master Distiller
Stuart is the Master Distiller and co-founder of Deerness Distillery. Born in Australia and educated in the UK as a Chartered Engineer, he spent years as an Project Director delivering major capital projects around the world. But his heart was always in crafting spirits, beer and wine. That passion led him to Orkney, where he turned a lifelong dream into reality - creating spirits with character, care, and a touch of island magic. Every bottle reflects Stuart’s hands-on approach and love for the process, blending technical precision with a deep respect for tradition.
Adelle Brown
Co-founder & Operations Director
A qualified pharmacist by background, Adelle moved to Orkney in search of a better work-life balance; and ended up building a business from the ground up! Alongside her husband Stu, she co-founded Deerness Distillery, quite literally laying the foundations of the original distillery. Driven by passion and a hands-on approach, Adelle has worked tirelessly to grow the business, crafting unique premium spirits and creating a welcoming café and shop that’s become a local favourite. Her dedication and creativity are at the heart of everything Deerness Distillery stands for.
Gavin May
Commercial Director
Gav started in banking, earning financial planning and mortgage qualifications. He went on to run successful property businesses before the exciting transition into this new industry.
Gav thrives on the sales side of business and loves the buzz of driving growth and building strong relationships. He is known for his good sense of humour but also brings a result-driven mindset to his role. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him skiing, or at least talking about it!
Alison May
HR Director
Ali brings a wealth of HR experience from both the public and private sectors, backed by her CIPD qualifications. Her career has been shaped by a deep understanding of people, with time spent not only in HR but also as a primary school teacher, adding a unique perspective to her approach. Passionate about wellbeing, Ali is a strong advocate for creating a supportive, balanced workplace where people can thrive. A Pilates fan and devoted to her family, she brings the same focus on care and balance to the Distillery team.
Shane Kingston
Distillery Lead
As our Distillery Process Lead, Shane plays a key role in keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. From preparing and shipping online orders to working on the distillation of our gin, vodka, whisky, and coffee liqueur, his hands are on every part of the process. You’ll also find Shane carefully bottling, labelling, and sealing each product, ensuring that every bottle leaving the distillery meets our high standards of quality and craftsmanship. From still to doorstep, Shane helps bring the spirit of Deerness to you.
Jamie Hutchison
Graduate Distiller
Jamie has been part of the Deerness Distillery team for several years, working with us during holidays while studying Brewing and Distilling at university. Now, with his degree in hand, we're thrilled to welcome him onboard full-time as our Graduate Distiller, just as we embark on our exciting whisky-making journey. With a solid foundation in both theory and hands-on experience, Jamie brings fresh knowledge and enthusiasm to the still room. Outside of the distillery, you'll find him enjoying a good game of rugby — preferably with a dram waiting at the end!
Jasmin Brown
Kitchen Lead
As our Kitchen Lead, Jasmin heads up the talented team behind the delicious food served in our café. With a passion for flavour and a focus on fresh, local ingredients, she ensures every dish is made with care.
Her true speciality?
Baking incredible cakes that are fast becoming a favourite among visitors. From classic bakes to creative seasonal treats, Jasmin's cakes are the perfect pairing for a coffee or even a dram!
Behind every slice served, there’s her signature touch of homemade goodness.
Elaine Stewart
Front of House & Events Co-ordinator
Elaine is our friendly face and organisational powerhouse at Deerness Distillery. She brings a wealth of experience in retail, visual marketing, customer service, and event planning to the role—all wrapped up in a can-do attitude. Having grown up in Orkney, Elaine knows the islands inside out. Whether it’s sourcing local talent, coordinating unforgettable events, or helping visitors feel instantly at home, she’s the one with the answers—and a plan to match. Her creativity, calm under pressure and deep local knowledge make her an irreplaceable part of the team.
Rachel Eunson
Social Media Lead
Rach has been part of the Deerness Distillery family almost from the very beginning, and there’s not much she can’t do! Whether she’s lending a hand in the distillery, café, or shop, Rach brings energy, warmth, and a can-do spirit to every corner of the business. She’s also the creative behind our social media, capturing the beauty of Orkney and distillery life through her stunning photography and engaging posts. Her eye for detail and storytelling helps share the heart of Deerness with the world. From pouring drinks to posting reels, Rach does it all and always with a smile.