Norman Murray to chair Icas ethics board

Accounting trade body Icas has drafted in one of Scotland’s best-known business figures to spearhead a drive on ethics.

Norman Murray has been named chair of the Icas ethics board. Picture: Toby Williams

Norman Murray, the former chairman of Edinburgh-based oil and gas explorer Cairn Energy and energy services giant Petrofac, will be tasked with taking forward the organisation’s new “power of one” initiative, aimed at stamping out unethical behaviour.

He said: “An important aspect of The Power of One is the need for individuals to have the confidence and the moral courage to deal with ethical issues. Alongside this, companies must encourage a culture of doing the right thing when dealing with those issues.

“We are encouraging our membership, many of whom hold key positions in global businesses, to play a leading role in influencing business culture and ensuring the right climate exists for principled, ethical decision making.”

Murray, a past president of Icas, also chairs Scottish Ballet and Glasgow-based distiller Edrington, owner of Cutty Sark, Famous Grouse, Highland Park and Macallan.

Icas chief executive Anton Colella said: “Norman Murray is one of our most respected business professionals and we are very fortunate to have him join us in this great initiative.

“We are establishing this to drive ethical leadership in business. We know our members can lead the way on ethics and this new board will provide the strategic direction to ensure that The Power of One makes a positive impact on business across the globe.”