Rather than attributing success to bold decisions alone, Lesley believes lasting achievement comes from consistently doing the small things well. Honesty, respect, uncompromising quality and continual learning have remained the foundations of her leadership, even as the retail industry has evolved.
She believes that kindness and integrity are not optional qualities in business but essential ones, and that reputation is earned every single day through actions rather than words.
Like every business owner, Lesley has faced significant challenges throughout her career. She openly acknowledges that there have been moments when the responsibility of leading a business felt overwhelming, yet those experiences strengthened her resolve instead of diminishing it. She measures success not by avoiding adversity but by how people choose to respond when difficulties arise, focusing on what she can control while never losing sight of the reasons she began her journey.
Her greatest passion remains the people she serves.
Every engagement ring, wedding band, anniversary gift or commemorative piece represents a deeply personal chapter in someone’s life, and becoming part of those moments is something she considers a genuine privilege. Seeing multiple generations of the same families continue to place their trust in John McKay Jewellers is, in her view, one of the greatest rewards any business could hope to receive.
Although honoured to receive the Influential Woman in Business Award, Lesley says the achievement she values most is the trust her customers have placed in the business across many decades. The continued loyalty of families who recommend John McKay Jewellers and return with their children and grandchildren represents a legacy that means more to her than any individual accolade.
“Believe in yourself, even when nobody else does. Don’t let where you started in life determine where you think you can finish. Never stop learning, don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t wait for the perfect moment because it rarely comes.”
Receiving the award has also given her the opportunity to pause and reflect on how far both she and the business have come. Rather than constantly focusing on future challenges, she says the recognition has reinforced the importance of resilience, kindness and staying true to one’s values.
Throughout her career, Lesley has drawn inspiration from many sources. Her customers have taught her empathy, her team has taught her trust, and life itself has taught her resilience. Above all, she credits the Paisley community, whose loyalty over the past 80 years has inspired her to keep improving while never taking that trust for granted.
“Success isn’t about where you start; it’s about refusing to let your circumstances decide where you’ll finish. If my journey encourages even one woman to believe in herself, then that’s an achievement I’m every bit as proud of as this award.”
The Influential Woman in Business 2026 Award recognises not only Lesley Catherine Elder’s outstanding achievements within the jewellery industry but also her ethical leadership, commitment to excellence and lasting contribution to British craftsmanship. Through integrity, resilience and an unwavering dedication to her customers and community, she continues to demonstrate the qualities that define influential leadership while ensuring John McKay Jewellers remains a trusted name for generations to come.
About Lesley Catherine Elder
Lesley Catherine Elder is the driving force behind John McKay Jewellers, one of Scotland’s most respected independent manufacturing jewellers. With a steadfast commitment to ethical craftsmanship, Fairtrade precious metals, and responsibly sourced gemstones, she combines traditional jewellery-making with modern innovation while upholding the highest standards of quality, integrity, and customer care. Her leadership continues to honour the company’s proud 80-year heritage while inspiring its future.
Contact
Phone: 0141 889 4904
Email: sales@johnmckayjewellers.com
Website: www.johnmckayjewellers.com
