Describe your role in one sentence at Cairn ?

Everything external – viewings, inventories, valuations, running Cairn BnB, inspections, checkouts and I’m sure there’s more that I can’t think of!

What is your proudest business achievement ?

My proudest business achievement is having come from a totally different career path altogether to where I am now. I qualified as an optician but quickly realised that it wasn’t for me so I changed career path where I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today. Cairn have also given me the opportunity to run solely the CairnBNB side of the business – and I love it!

What the best thing about working at Cairn ?

The best thing is that no 2 days are the same and that it’s so fast paced that the day flies by you before you know it. You also get to meet people from all walks of life and be able to walk around some unique properties.

Give us an interesting fact about yourself ?

Given that it’s World Cup season, my interesting fact is that I have a FIFA World Cup medal at home. My Grandpa’s uncle was one of the coaches for Team USA at the inaugural 1930 World Cup where they finished in 3rd place. He’s also in the USA hall of fame in the museum in Oregon which is very interesting – at least I think it is!

What is the best piece of business advice you have been given ?

Believe in yourself. Always push yourself and work as hard as you can and things will fall into place if it’s meant to be.

What advice would you give your 18 year old self?

If you don’t enjoy something in your life, don’t be afraid to change it. You need to be happy in what you’re doing otherwise it will take it’s toll on you and the frustration will only manifest further.

Who are your hero’s inside and outside of business ?

Inside of business my hero is Elon Musk. He might not be the most likeable guy on the planet but he’s the definition of an entrepreneur.

Outside of business is my mum. She’s has had a lot of health problems in recent years and Covid has made things even more difficult by keeping family away from visiting her to cheer her up when she’s feeling down. Through all of that, she still finds the energy to play with her grandchildren and always has a smile on her face even after having a very tough few years recently.

What qualities do you most admire in others ?

Honesty, reliability, loyalty and selflessness.

How do you unwind out of work ?

I spend precious family time with my wife and two kids.

The other love in my life is my Sunday league football team, Glasgow Wednesday, which I run with my school friend and it was formed to keep old friends in touch whilst keeping fit too. We have been running for 6 years now and we are very much involved in homeless charity work with various clothing drives and competitions throughout the year to raise funds, which is nice to give back to those in need.

Favourite book/CD/DVD?

You can’t go wrong with The Sopranos. I’ve seen it loads of times and each time it’s just as good.

Where is your favourite place in Scotland ?

I love travelling up to the highlands once a year. Driving through Glencoe is always a highlight too.