Why I joined: As I transition from a career in corporate hotel world into one of independent travel consultancy I feel encouraged by the simple fact I get to make my own decisions, ones that feel right and ones that have a positive impact on our own futures.
What I hope to get from it: I hope to be inspired and learn from a well informed and responsible community and believe that my own journey towards being the best and most sustainable can be shaped by a community of like-minded individuals and businesses.
What I do in business: I run a travel agency business focused on creating exception travel experiences. I plan and book accommodation and travel arrangements for both premium corporate and luxury leisure clients in addition to any associated travel services my clients have.
Optionally share a hobby or passions I am happy sharing to the community: I have two conflicting hobbies that I carefully attempt to balance, these are running and great local beer. In new destinations the two help me to discover and feel a part, a run around the neighbourhood scouting out what is what on foot and where the best chances of sampling the most authentic and local food and drink is the aim.
Personal actions I have taken or plan in their NetZero journey: My children are very aware of Scotland and NetZero targets, it is inspiring to hear our young people talk passionately and in an informed way on topics that matter. As a family we looked at transport, vehicle use, packaging, recycling, waste, and some of the other easy quick fixes. I try to teach our children that when faced with a decision, always make the right one. They are invariably ahead of us on this one - which bodes well for the future and credits our education system here in Scotland.
Company actions I have taken to accelerate NetZero: As a company, it is just me and I have made a number of promises as to how I wish to operate. These fall broadly into the categories of respecting locality, choosing transport carefully, trusting your suppliers, championing a responsible ethos and its merits, making the right digital choices and I always partner with friends, loving to collaborate locally with people I know and trust. As a consultant I carry out my meetings, ideally face to face and have switched to electric bike for this - I am in fact an ambassador and rep for Cowboy electric bikes, the fastest and most sustainable way to commute through an urban landscape.
What expertise, knowledge, services, or products they can offer to other members to accelerate their NetZero path: In terms of travel I can advise on best and most responsible options, educating on net zero targets in the accommodation and travel sectors. More locally I operate as a test rider for the Cowboy eBike and can help you on your way to choosing electric for the commute and getting about your daily business.
Finally, Something people might not know about you that makes you memorable: What a tough question, I’d love to be memorable for my knowledge on any of my hobbies or sports - however not having played anything to a high enough standard that may be a push. Perhaps, despite my love for travel and luxury hotels my friends come to me for my camping expertise - being a family of five plus Victor, our Jack Russell we are often found camping around Scotland. Talk to me about outdoor and adventure tourism - another real passion, especially if natural open water is nearby. An indicator of a global movement towards slow, richer, experiential travel choices.