The Faces Behind Skye Candles: Fraser Yates

Following on from our last staff feature about Willie Stewart, we'd like to continue to share the stories of our team, to showcase the faces that collectively help to bring our brand to life. This month we'd like to celebrate an employee who will be sadly leaving us soon, Fraser Yates.  

Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to have employed many gifted individuals. Some are still part of the team, some have moved on to different ventures. Some have only been with us a short time, yet fit into the team so well that it feels like they've been here for years. Fraser joined the Isle of Skye Candle Co. team in 2021 as our Operations Manager. 

Fraser was born in Hull and moved to Aberdeen at a young age. He studied Sport & Exercise Science before completing his Master's in International Business Management at the University of Aberdeen.

Outside of work Fraser has always been a sporty person. He's an avid golf fan (he was part of the team behind our limited edition 150th Open Fairway Gorse candle) and played hockey throughout school and university.

Fraser playing hockey for his university team

Having been brought up in the countryside, being out in nature is something Fraser has always enjoyed. Fraser saw an opportunity to see more of Scotland when he spotted a job advert at Isle of Skye Candle Co. He was eager to see and explore Skye whilst also working for an ever-growing company with a great community feel.

 Fraser and his Dad up the Old Man of Storr

In a conversation we had with Fraser, he reflected on his time with us:

"Apart from the weather occasionally, I wouldn’t change it at all. I have been able to explore what this beautiful island has to offer and get the insights from the locals, my new friends, on where the best places are to go. Having played for the local football team it has made it possible to further immerse myself within the local community and enjoy everything that Broadford has to offer. However even though I am leaving I will forever hold Isle of Skye Candle Co. close to my heart as it is where I started my professional career, and I will forever continue to support this strong brand."

We asked Fraser a few questions about his about his time at Isle of Skye Candle Co. Here is what he said:

What has been your favourite thing about working for Skye Candles?

The fellow candle staff, I think that’s what makes this job so enjoyable is the friendliness of all the staff and how close everyone is to each other. Coming to the workshop every day and seeing all their smiley faces and the general chit chat is that one special thing about the candle community. I think this is what I will miss the most.

What is a lesson you’ve learned that you’ll take with you onto your next job? 

Communication, especially whilst we’ve been split across our two new locations, I think that the clarity in communication is vitally important to be a success in the role and remaining organised with all the information I get every day.

What is your favourite Isle of Skye Candle Co. fragrance?

I would have to say Frankincense and Myrrh, big shout out to the 3 wise men of the workshop. 

We are now hiring for Fraser's position as Operations Manager. Please send your CV to emma@skyecandles.co.uk to apply.