£1.1bn tourism boost for North-east economy
Russell Borthwick in conversation with Chief
Executive of VisitAberdeenshire Chris Foy.
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Independent energy body ‘essential’ for sector’s future
Ryan Crighton on the need for a new approach to the energy transition.
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Lights, camera... action?
Designs unveiled for the new and improved Belmont Cinema.
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Russell Borthwick in conversation with Chief Executive of VisitAberdeenshire Chris Foy.
RB: Let’s start with the incredible headline that the visitor economy delivered a £1.1billion economic impact in the North-east last year. Beating the target we set out to achieve in 2017! We’re not only seeing a strong recovery from the pandemic, but also significant growth from 2019. What lies behind the story?
CF: This is a burgeoning, vibrant sector that is making a difference to lives and livelihoods in the Northeast from Aberdeen to Alford and from St Cyrus to Sandend. This demonstrates the important role of tourism within the Regional Economic Strategy, and validation that ours is the place where Scottish tourism is going to grow. The strategy is now paying dividends in the form of new jobs and business growth helping to transform the region’s economy. This has been delivered by our team, supported by a range of partners and powered by investment in VisitAberdeenshire’s work with Opportunity North East and our local authorities. Investment that is now demonstrating a handsome return.
But at the heart of this story is the resilience, ingenuity and vision of the tourism and hospitality businesses here; collectively employing more than 11,000 people in jobs that fit with lifestyles and open up new career prospects as the North-east economy continues to diversify.
At VisitAberdeenshire we have been banging the drum for the North-east since before the pandemic, we kept the lights on during those dark times, then maintained a consistent message that challenged long held perceptions of Aberdeen and its magnificent hinterlands and is now
delivering substantial results.
RB: What are the ingredients that make up a successful visitor destination?
CF: That’s easy. Three Cs. Cost, connectivity, and compelling experiences.
RB: Ok so how are we, as a region, doing on these fronts?
CF: Tour operators and conference organisers are now realising that this is a part of Scotland where they can do business. The very basics of securing room allocations at a rate where there is a viable margin means that the North-east is where Scottish tourism will grow. Average rates in Aberdeen are currently around £20 lower than in Glasgow which makes us highly competitive. Independent travellers are realising that too, and it is no further, and often much quicker to drive to the east coast than the west.
There is certainly more headroom on connectivity, both in travel time and frequency.
At the moment Aberdeen has a strong presence on departure boards in London airports and in regional hotspots which makes a lot of difference to both leisure and conference travel. A game changer would be a regular connection from a highly concentrated population area in Germany.
We all have our anecdotes of rail delays between Aberdeen and somewhere in the central belt or beyond but casting my mind back to being stranded outside Clapham Junction, Bristol Parkway, and even Zurich Hauptbahnhof of all places, reminds me that train troubles are not a uniquely North-east of Scotland challenge.
We have more and more innovative visitor experiences that meet demand, who are also now telling their story in a compelling way. Along with Opportunity North East we have been running a growth programme for tourism businesses since 2018, with over 50 local firms from across the North-east so far benefiting for professional advice and mentoring.
RB: This is a great story. Can you tell our readers some of the companies that have benefited?
CF: Of course. A free plug for… Dalriada, Twin Peakes fly fishing, Castleton Farm, Braemar Highland Games Pavilion and Aberdeenshire Sheepdogs to name just a few.
RB: What will get in the way of the great progress we have seen?
CF: The high cost of doing business not only puts some operators at risk, but it can stifle innovation among others. Adapting to and adopting new legislation remains a big challenge- something which we know the Chamber has been highlighting. And access options. Rail and air services need to consolidate and we need to see growth of key routes. However, the majority of our visitors still come by car, and looking ahead, there is some catching up to do with the Scottish and UK average on EV charging points if this is to remain a preferred and viable form of travel.
RB: And on the topic of legislation, what about the prospect of the visitor levy? Something with which anyone who travels to cities in the UK and further afield will be familiar with.
CF: Legislation has now passed stage 3 at Holyrood, but it is still early days. Three key components are that any levy should be easy to understand - and affordable - for the visitor. Simple to implement for a wide range of accommodation businesses (and local authorities), and effective in its hypothecation that the funds raised will be used to directly support local visitor economies across Scotland. This has been well precedented in Manchester over the past year where £2.8million has been raised, and re-invested in tourism marketing, bidding for conventions as well as funding public events and maintenance of key touch points for visitors within the public realm.
RB: So, how has VisitAberdeenshire built on the positives and overcome the challenges?
CF: We operate in a highly competitive market for the visitor pound, euro, dollar or krone. And historically we have not been the most front of mind destination in the UK. So we’ve had to take some bold moves to get the North-east on the radar.
To challenge perceptions, often only seeing is believing. We have secured major tourism conventions, hosted travel writers and tour operators, cruise companies and golf operators, invested in great photography and video. As you know Russell - because you were there - we were the first destination in the UK, if not further afield, to host a reception in London for the national travel media after the pandemic, ensuring that Aberdeenshire was top of the list for travel articles and tv programmes.
Chris Foy, Chief Executive, VisitAberdeenshire
We’ve delivered compelling and innovative marketing campaigns, partnering with other brands like Loganair and Mackie’s of Scotland like the current “Destination Delicious” promotion on screens and in supermarket freezers across the UK. And media partnerships to get Aberdeenshire top of mind among adventure enthusiasts. Crucially we evaluate all of this and our own channel promotions alone - by which I mean our e-marketing, website and social media - has put over £3.5million into the local economy. Our promotion last autumn with Caledonian Sleeper contributed another £1/2million.
RB: So what are VisitAberdeenshire’s priorities for the year ahead? Or put another way, where next, why and how?
CF: This summer we will set our targets for growth for the sector as a whole through to 2029/30, as well as some more nuanced targets around length of stay and intention to visit.
Meantime, while the overall picture is positive, there are notable troughs outside of the peak season that we can help to address.
While we certainly benefit from the endless daylight in summer, winter can also be a wonderful time this far north. There is a stellar opportunity to play to our natural and creative strengths that meet customer demand and market trends. Dark skies in our rural spots, festivals, shows, nights out in the city. Our new Northern Nights campaign will launch in the autumn as a banner under which our winter offer can be promoted to a wider audience. In the meantime we’re working with businesses across the region to help develop dark sky experiences. As someone who grew up under the orange glow of the west London sky… it is a difference that I recognise.
On business events, we’ve a strong Team Aberdeen in place all playing to remits and strengths. Part of my team, the Aberdeen Convention Bureau, promotes our world class venue P&J Live and other venues across the region. Universities are the crucial third wheel to attract the great minds for association conferences.
Add in the role of the Chamber, the wider business community, travel partners and Aberdeen becomes a very joined up proposition for conference organisers to consider. We’re on a roll this year with a strong pipeline of major wins aligned to the key growth sectors in the regional economic strategy.
We need to maximise the value of cruise visits. Not just on the day, but with an eye to the future. Our smiling, uniformed welcome volunteers help to create the very best impression of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, increasing the probability of return visits among our cruise guests.
Using our own channels to promote events and festivals, reasons to be here now, not next year, will be an important part of our activity over the next few weeks. Events like the Legends Tour at Trump International, Nuart, Portsoy Boat Festival and our own Provenance Festival in September celebrating the incredible array of local food and drink demonstrate the diversity of the offer we have. And these things should encourage residents to become tourists in their own back yard.
Working with Opportunity North East on the North-east Adventure Tourism Project, we have a new marketing strategy and dynamic video to enhance the profile of the region among adventure seekers and help this crucial sector to grow.
Building on the effective collaboration with strategically important partners. Our funders and future sponsors will be key to this, but it is also important that we keep the profile of VisitAberdeenshire and the region high among bodies like VisitScotland and VisitBritain, so that a consistent depiction of the region goes out to all of our audiences, wherever they may be in the world.
RB: Not much going on then! So finally, what’s critical to the continued future success of VisitAberdeenshire and the region’s visitor economy?
CF: We know now that tourism is growing at pace, but we cannot afford to stand still. As a destination, we are just scratching the surface of what is possible.
Without funding, we cannot deliver the successful outcomes that have been our hallmark in recent
years. We continue to benefit from public sector and private sector supporters who recognise the positive impact on the region’s economy from our work. That gives the North-east a competitive edge, demonstrating that tourism is one area of public sector funding that can actually deliver a quantifiable return on investment. So it is essential that we continue to demonstrate the added value we provide so that support for VisitAberdeenshire is continued to be recognised as a priority. This is particularly important if our local authorities take up the opportunity to implement the visitor levy. We will make a strong case for how the proceeds should be used to further develop and promote our tourism sector, learning from the success in Manchester and Salford.
Our primary private sector funder, Opportunity North East has been pioneering in its support for tourism and has been instrumental in the sector’s success to date. This is unprecedented in the UK and demonstrates how the private sector can drive positive change. We now need other companies to follow ONE’s trailblazing example and work with us to shape the future of the region’s economy. As I said earlier, sponsorship of our work is nothing new we just need to do more. Much more.
In 2024 we are taking this to another level with a corporate sponsorship programme that will enable businesses from within and outwith the tourism sector to be part of the success story that is VisitAberdeenshire and I’d be delighted to speak to any Chamber member that wants to know more.
The Chamber sits at the heart of the North-east business community, and one of our core aims is to help create the economic conditions and business environment which will allow this region to flourish.
Our premier partners see the value of a strong regional Chamber and choose to engage with us at this level to reinforce their ongoing commitment to the region and its economy.
Without their support we would not be able to undertake much of the work that we do. Their engagement is hugely valued and appreciated.
If you are interested in joining them, we’d love to talk to you!
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Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) welcomed back its annual dinner for a second year, announcing a fundraising total of £80,000.
The Aberdeen-based support charity welcomed guests to Aberdeen’s Union Kirk for the sold-out Think Different Dinner, organised and managed by A-ND’s event and PR partners ThinkPR Scotland, with all money raised contributing towards the expansion of A-ND’s services in the north of Scotland including aims for growth within key locations into the highlands.
A-ND currently provides ongoing ‘life-changing’ care and support services to over 230 individuals and their families throughout Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and the Highlands and with continued funding, A-ND has its sights set on increasing this number to more than 500 by 2027.
The annual dinner is the charity’s largest fundraising event, providing the platform to generate support and is crucial in increasing awareness of A-ND’s services. Since last year’s dinner, A-ND has increased the number of people it supports from 150 to 236 whilst launching its innovative Binky the Sensory Bus initiative: a doubledecker bus offering a unique and specialised mobile sensory environment.
Reflecting on what these funds mean for the charity, A-ND CEO, Billy Alexander, commented: “This is truly a new high for us here at A-ND. The outstanding success of the Think Different Dinner 2024 is a testament to the power of collaboration between the private and third sectors. When we work together, the difference we can make in our community is, quite literally, life-changing - we saw it last year after the success of the inaugural dinner, and we’ll see it again now.”
Tullos Training, a leading provider of vocational training and education, has announced a new sponsorship partnership with Newtonhill Community Club.
Their generous sponsorship has enabled the club’s 2012year group to purchase brand new football strips and boot bags, all proudly branded with Tullos Training logo. The support from Tullos Training has had a significant impact on the young players, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the team.
The new football strips and boot bags have not only elevated the team’s appearance but also boosted the players’ morale. The kids are now stepping onto the field with a renewed sense of confidence, embodying the spirit of teamwork and dedication that Newtonhill Community Club stands for.
HMIe Inspectors have published an excellent inspection report for Robert Gordon’s College highlighting the school’s strengths as one of Scotland’s leading educational institutions.
The school has been recognised for outstanding educational attainment and the impact their pupils make in the world.
The team of inspectors from Education Scotland, who visited in February 2024, praised the College for “outstanding and sustained levels of academic attainment across the school”, year on year, highlighting that “young people’s very strong performance in examinations is frequently above national averages.”
The inspectors reported that the standard of learning in literacy and numeracy in Robert Gordon’s College Junior School was exceeding national expectations with a significant number of children across all stages working beyond national standards.
In the senior school young people’s attainment and progress in literacy and numeracy has been described as outstanding, with the College being praised for its dedicated teaching approaches that carefully track the progress of those young people who require additional support to be successful in their learning.
Robin Macpherson, Head of College, shared: “We are very proud of the excellent practice that the HMIe team identified during their visit, and being invited to share four distinct areas of best practice with other Scottish schools is a testament to the whole Gordon’s community.”
Aberdeen-based managed IT services provider IFB has launched its new podcast series The In’Abooters.
With a passion for technology, people’s stories, and the local area they’ve thrived in, IFB brings engaging conversations to the forefront.
CEO, Graeme Gordon said: “We are delighted to launch In’Abooters podcast. We are a bit geeky and passionate about what we do and where we do it. We love people’s stories, technology and the area we have grown up in for over 28 years.”
Yvette Harrison, Parlour Manager, Mackie’s 19.2
Give us the elevator pitch for your business.
We opened Mackie’s 19.2, Mackie’s of Scotland’s first ice cream parlour, in December 2017 and were one of the first businesses located in Mariscal Square. We serve over 30 flavours of delicious ice cream in cones, tubs, sundaes, and milkshakes, as well
Andy Watson, Operations Manager, Aberdeen, MRS Training & Rescue
Give us the elevator pitch for your business.
MRS Training & Rescue can trace its roots back in Scotland to 1910, when it was established as a Mines Rescue Station in Cowdenbeath, Fife. With the closure of the last deep coal mine in Scotland in 2002, the company has expanded and diversified to
as freshly made crepes, waffles, coffees, and toasties. Our name reflects the 19.2 miles in distance from the parlour to the family farm, where all the ice cream is made. With the variety of flavours, sauces, and toppings, there are over 725,000 delicious combinations to choose from! You can sit in, takeaway or find us on Deliveroo and get all your favourites delivered straight to your door.
Who are your customers?
We attract a wide variety of customers. Locals who know the strong Mackie’s brand and tourists looking to try some traditional Scottish flavours, like Tablet and Buttery and Jam. During the day customers visit us for a coffee and toastie and after school, the shop is full of parents and children looking for a sweet treat. In the evening, we see those who have been out for dinner who are looking for dessert.
What is the biggest challenge and opportunity your
organisation is facing right now?
The decline in footfall in Aberdeen city centre due to traffic restrictions, the cost of living and the closure of stores, has been a challenge for us recently. However, we’re constantly creating new, limited-edition flavours to keep customers excited to return. We have been capitalising on special events such as Spectra and the Christmas Village and we’re maximising sales with visitors that the new cruise ship routes are bringing to the city. We are also attracting new customers through Deliveroo which has been successful for us.
What is your word of advice for fellow Chamber members?
Use the Chamber to reach out to other businesses who might have a solution to your problem. Everyone in the Chamber is happy to help fellow businesses, so use these contacts to your advantage. Also take advantage of the excellent events that the Chamber host as they can be a great way to network and learn something new.
meet the needs of today’s health and safety market. We have been at the forefront of innovation since our inception over 100 years ago. From our beginnings as a Mines Rescue Station, we have developed and diversified to meet the operational needs of industry to become the nation’s premier provider of specialist working at height, confined space training and emergency rescue cover and consultancy.
Who are your customers?
We provide a comprehensive range of accredited health and safety training, unique rescue services, specialist equipment and consultancy to a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, nuclear, aerospace, manufacturing, civil engineering, construction and utilities throughout the UK.
What is the biggest challenge your organisation is facing?
Every year in the UK around 15 people die from working in a
confined space. Despite the plethora of legislation, information and regulations out there, it’s surprising that a lot of companies don’t make it a priority to do the correct, most appropriate training and risk mitigation. It is not about undertaking a significant amount of extra training. It’s about getting your existing training right. When lives can hang in the balance, there’s no room for complacency.
What is the biggest opportunity?
Nobody knows confined spaces training like MRS Training and Rescue. Our expertise and experience is borne from decades of practical application, offering a specialist, highly dedicated service to ensure lives are saved all over the world. To find out more on this critical subject, visit our website www.mrsl.co.uk.
Steven Gray, Head of Business Development - Europe, Altrad Sparrows
Give us the elevator pitch for your business.
Altrad Sparrows is a global provider of specialist operations and maintenance, engineering and inspection services to the industrial, offshore energy and renewables markets. The business was established in 1975 when we started
John Richardson, Managing Director, Thundercat Training
Give us the elevator pitch for your business.
We provide high quality training courses and programmes intended to empower our delegates and clients with the knowledge and practical skills to improve their own performance and add value
providing lifting and handling services to oil and gas operators.
Who are your customers?
Our clients include major oil and gas operators, wind farm operators, vessel owners, drilling contractors and nuclear power plant operators including BP, TAQA, Repsol, EnQuest, ADNOC, Kuwait Oil Company, Vestas, Siemens, Seadrill, Transocean, Dow, EDF and UK Ministry of Defence.
What is the biggest challenge and opportunity your organisation is facing right now?
We’ve been growing our business in the industrial sector, in the UK this has been challenging but we also see a lot of opportunities here. Our skills and experience in the offshore energy sector are transferable to mechanical, electrical and hydraulic machinery or complex mechanical handling projects for industrial operations.
What is your word of advice for fellow Chamber members?
Keep pushing yourself and try new things. Don’t be afraid of failures while you’re looking for the right solution.
What is the best thing about being a Chamber member?
The opportunity to meet, network with and learn from so many other businesses in the area, inside and outside of our own sectors, is really valuable.
to their organisations. We focus on human factors, root cause analysis, incident investigation, as well as environmental and sustainability training.
Who are your customers?
Our customers are organisations who understand the value of building their culture, operational processes and working environment to optimise positive human performance from their teams. We also work with anyone keen to equip their people with sustainability training and skills –a ‘must’ for the future.
What is the biggest challenge and opportunity your organisation is facing right now?
The biggest challenge is getting organisations to understand what human factors and human organisational performance (HOP) means and what root cause analysis is. The biggest opportunity is helping clients on their sustainability journey
via our range of IEMA certified courses that equip teams with the sustainability skills needed to help meet strategic sustainability objectives.
Word of advice for your fellow Chamber members?
As Richard Branson said: “Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.” Investing in high quality training will always provide an excellent return on investment.
What is the best thing about being a Chamber member?
Obviously being able to get our message out has been a huge win. However, what I’ve found most valuable has been the assistance and opportunities provided to meet directly with people from other exciting organisations in Aberdeen. Contrary to what we often hear, I think Aberdeen is a very exciting business environment.
Scotland’s hotel sector showed more signs of recovery in April despite cost pressures, including the recent national minimum wage (NMW) increase, according to the RSM Hotels Tracker.
The data, which is compiled and produced by Hotstats and analysed by RSM UK, shows occupancy increased to 73.4% in Scotland last month, up from 72.3% in March. Scotland’s average daily rates (ADR) of occupied rooms also increased to £121.93 in April 2024, up from £104.77 in March, £114.19 in April 2023, and pre-pandemic levels of £88.72 (April 2019). In comparison, ADR of occupied rooms in the UK were flat year-on-year at £139.51 in April, showing that Scotland is bucking the wider UK trend.
Scottish hoteliers saw RevPAR increase from £75.76 in March to £89.51 in April, up from £85.94 in April 2023 and £69.48 in April 2019. Comparatively, RevPAR figures in the UK and London hotels were static last month when compared to the previous year, at £103.90 and £159.72 respectively.
Labour costs per available room were up from £13.38 (March) to £14.80 (April) in Scotland, due to the rise in NMW resulting in flat gross operating profits at 27% last month, as seen throughout the UK and in London, highlighting a NMW hit to the bottom line.
Stuart McCallum, Partner and Head of Consumer Markets in Scotland at RSM UK, said: “Despite ongoing cost pressures recently accelerated by the national minimum wage (NMW) increase, Scottish hoteliers appear to be performing relatively well, with average daily rates and RevPAR increasing in April vs the previous month, year, and pre-pandemic levels. More encouragingly, this bucks the wider trend in the UK and London, which saw many hotels achieve flat levels of growth over the same period.
“However, businesses will be mindful of various cost pressures as they look to maintain healthy levels of occupancy ahead of a busy summer, and we’re also yet to see the full impact of the national minimum wage increases. While hotels have been able to charge higher room rates compared to pre-pandemic levels, little of this has been making its way through to the bottom line, with profit margins being squeezed. In addition, the changing political landscape will be adding uncertainty in the market. For some hoteliers, the fierce competition for hotel staff over the last couple of years has meant they are already paying above minimum wage. However, a rise in NMW has a knock-on impact as it ripples through the rest of the workforce as higher paid staff demand similar percentage increases.”
He added: “But, as we enter the summer months, the arrival of warmer weather and various international events including The Open at Royal Troon, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Taylor Swift’s Eras tour will boost Scotland’s hotel sector. This will also be strengthened by the new flights direct to Scotland from the US and China, enhancing international connectivity and opening up new tourism opportunities.”
Thomas Pugh, Economist at RSM UK, added: “April was a tough month for consumer businesses with miserable weather keeping them out of shops and putting them off house viewings. It seems a similar picture for the hotel sector as well.
“However, there are good reasons to expect spending on hospitality services to grow from here. First, households’ real disposable incomes are set to rise rapidly from April as inflation drops back to near 2% and tax cuts kick in, which will boost overall consumer spending. What’s more, consumer confidence should continue to rise ensuring that households spend most of their new income.
“Admittedly, spending on hospitality services has been relatively strong recently when compared to spending on goods. There may be some catch up spending on retail goods over the next year, especially as goods prices look set to fall. However, the increase in consumer incomes means that even if consumers restock on retail goods, they should also increase spending on hotels and accommodation.
“What’s more, a strong dollar and rapid growth in consumer incomes will make the UK a more attractive destination for visitors from America. Similarly, as the European economies rebound, demand for travel from the continent will increase.”
A new rail link connecting Aberdeen to Fraserburgh via Peterhead would deliver a North-east economic boom and reduce fatal accidents on one of Scotland’s deadliest roads, a key study has found.
The findings come hot on the heels of the opening of the Levenmouth rail link, following a multi-million-pound Scottish Government investment – leaving Peterhead and Fraserburgh as the two largest towns in the UK furthest from the rail network.
Commissioned by the Campaign for North East Rail (CNER) and the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC), the report also found the link could support the just transition and new jobs.
The Buchan Sustainable Transport Study sets out options for a new rail line which would help address economic inequality in the region’s most deprived communities in Peterhead and Fraserburgh with business leaders backing the proposal to extend the East Coast line to both towns.
Through data analysis and surveys with hundreds of residents, the report produced evidence of stifled investment and job opportunities, alongside reduced access to healthcare, due to limited public transport and unreliable commuting times.
The link could significantly improve economic fortunes, according to the report, increasing the labour market for the region by 65%.
Similarly, the line would open up a 40% increase in job opportunities elsewhere for residents of Fraserburgh, Peterhead and their surrounds.
Currently, commuters to Aberdeen need to use the A90 (N) / A952, statistically one of the deadliest single
carriageways in Scotland. The report found that opening the new link could reduce 75% of serious or fatal accidents on the road and support Scottish Government goals to prevent these outright by 2050.
The preferred line would support the region’s wider economic strategy by facilitating opportunities in net zero as well as decarbonising transport in the shift from road to rail.
It would include the option for a freight link to St Fergus providing transport to the multi-billion-pound Acorn carbon capture and storage (CCS) and hydrogen development at St Fergus, while the wider line could connect workers to renewable energy opportunities centred around ports and harbours across the region.
Buchan’s existing long-term industries such as food, drink and tourism would also benefit, with fishing and seafood processing key sectors in Fraserburgh and Peterhead.
The preferred option consists of a new passenger and freight rail line created between Dyce and Fraserburgh via Peterhead, including a mix of reinstated track and new alignment.
It would serve passengers with stops at Dyce, Newmachar, Ellon and Cruden Bay with potential for new alignment to be created for a stop at Pitmedden. Alongside options for two freight spurs at Ellon and Peterhead with the possibility of a third at St Fergus.
The cost of the project would be determined through a follow-up detailed options appraisal, which campaigners are now calling on government to bring forward.
Funded through the Scottish Government Just Transition Fund, the Buchan Sustainable Transport Study was carried out by infrastructure and professional services consultancies AECOM and Stantec for CNER and AGCC.
Jordan Jack, General Secretary of CNER, said: “This study has shown us that extending the East Coast Line northwards and maintaining the Formartine and Buchan Way as a cycle path is feasible and would be transformative for North-east Scotland.
“Evidence from this report underlines what locals live and experience every day: poor transport links are stifling our potential, damaging access to healthcare, and limiting job opportunities in the region.
“As this report attests, parts of Fraserburgh and Peterhead are among the most deprived settlements in Aberdeenshire, and reconnection to the rail network will drastically improve people’s economic fortunes, health outcomes, education and social inclusion.”
Russell Borthwick, Chief Executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, said: “This report demonstrates the art of the possible. Communities in the Borders and now Fife have been successfully reconnected to the rail network. So, what’s next? This report contains the compelling answer. The next project should be right here in Aberdeenshire with Peterhead and Fraserburgh now being the two largest towns in the UK furthest from the rail network.”
Moray retailer Brodie Countryfare in Forres has bagged more than £18,000 to support babies, children and families in the north of Scotland.
Since 2014, the staff at the outlet and restaurant have raised thousands of pounds for The Archie Foundation through their carrier bag initiative.
Following the introduction of Scotland’s single use carrier bag charge in October 2014, Brodie Countryfare has collected all the money from 5p or 10p bag sales, with all proceeds going directly to the charity.
Impressed by the remarkable efforts of The Archie Foundation team in Aberdeen, Brodie Countryfare selected Archie as their charity of choice to help support the creation of the Highland Children’s Unit at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness.
The proceeds from the sale of bags raised £14,124.67, while a fashion show and the sale of Christmas cards raised a further £4,022.26.
Sarah Kinlin, Communications and Marketing Manager at Brodie Countryfare, said: “We are delighted to have raised over £18,000 in support of The Archie Foundation’s initiative in the Highlands. It’s heartening to see our community come together to contribute to such a worthwhile cause, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.”
The funds generated from the bag initiative played a crucial role in supporting The Archie Foundation’s essential work, providing assistance to babies, children and families at the Highland Children’s Unit at Raigmore Hospital, as well as the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and Tayside Children’s Hospital in Dundee.
Zoe Grant, Regional Fundraising Officer at The Archie Foundation in Inverness, said: “We are truly grateful for the ongoing support from Brodie Countryfare. Their dedication to our cause over the years has been instrumental in helping us bring essential services to babies, children and families in the Highlands.”
Provenance Festival is back for 2024, with VisitAberdeenshire welcoming North-east food and drink producers and businesses to become a key part of this year’s calendar of events.
This year’s festival will take place from Saturday, September 21 to Sunday, September 29. In 2023, more than 50 businesses opened their doors to provide oneoff, interactive behind-the-scenes experiences for visitors, with more than 100 events delivered during the 10 day festival. Launched in 2021 by Opportunity North East (ONE) to grow food tourism in the region, Provenance Festival is now delivered by VisitAberdeenshire and ONE, supporting the key food and drink and tourism sectors and economic diversification across the North-east.
Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The Provenance Festival is a brilliant opportunity for visitors and locals to explore deeper and find out more about food and drink offering in the region. I would encourage businesses to proudly open their doors and share the secrets of their success.”
Independent energy company, EnQuest, recently donated an impressive £8,775 to Cornerstone.
Julia Smith and Catriona Allan from the fundraising team had the pleasure of popping along to meet Eric and Will from EnQuest Ltd and find out more about what they do. The funds were raised through a charity initiative held on their offshore rigs.
Julia Smith, Public Fundraising Manager, said: “Our team were overwhelmed to receive such an impactful sum of money to improve the quality of life of the people we support at Cornerstone. We were so pleased to meet with some of the team members who made this possible”.
Aberdeen-based Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) manufacturer and supplier Mo+Co announced securing over £1million in international orders over the last six months.
The contracts provide specialised protective workwear to energy clients across Africa, Australia, and South America.
This expansion highlights Mo+Co’s strategic focus on overseas markets to grow the business.
Managing Director Austen Buchan shared: “This growth underpins our commitment to international expansion and continued innovation. It reflects our team’s hard work and the trust our clients place in us to deliver best-inclass PPE solutions.
“At Mo+Co, we believe in forging strong partnerships with our clients. As we continue to evolve and adapt, our priority remains on equipping the global energy workforce with the highest standard of protective workwear solutions, tailored to their unique needs and safety.”
With a 20-year track record of safeguarding energy professionals, Mo+Co remains focused on advancing its business to equip the workforce on an international scale. Central to their approach is R&D expertise, partnering with clients to pioneer industry-leading products.
Mo+Co developed their own brand, Diablo, to bring to market high-quality and cost-effective PPE solutions. With sustainability at the forefront, and through research and innovation, they are now forging ahead in developing sustainable workwear to meet the evolving needs of industries while minimising environmental impact.
Founded in 2002 Mo+Co combines bespoke garment design with personalised branding and swift global delivery, catering to the unique requirements of each client. Beyond energy, they serve customers in rail, recycling, renewables, transport, and utilities.
Graeme McNay, CEO, Valor Energy Group
Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
The professionals around me in business have significant influence. It’s vital to foster emerging talent, especially the retention and attraction of skilled personnel in STEM fields. I am committed to enhancing personal growth but also the wider industry with opportunities and achievements. I encourage everyone to pursue their aspirations as a path to achieving success.
What’s the most effective piece of training or personal development you have undertaken?
I self-taught myself inventor software used for designing tools. This was back in the day when everyone was still using Autodesk LT, 2D packages, this allowed me to design things I could only imagine. My business was established off these design ideas, and I have been selling and acquiring businesses since. Amazing how small changes can lead to larger changes.
What’s the biggest lesson you have learned in business?
Reflecting on career lessons, I’ve learned not to procrastinate on significant decisions. If something needs attention or is the right move, it’s best to act promptly rather than delaying. If you allow perfect to become the enemy of good you will never get off the starting line.
What’s been your proudest career achievement to date?
At 23, I started my own business, inspired by entrepreneurship and a driven mindset, designing downhole technology. My first boss became my first customer, offering mentorship that helped me succeed. This journey highlights the power of determination and the impact of supportive mentors in achieving success.
What’s the best thing about doing business in the northeast of Scotland?
The best thing about doing business in the North-east is the concentration of intelligent and motivated professionals. Despite its small size, this region possesses a collaborative spirit with a high drive for success, fostering a thriving business environment.
What was your first job?
My first job was a holiday rep in Kavos, graduating university that summer. I was exposed to a wide variety of people from different backgrounds. It was a lot of fun too.
Who or what inspires you most?
Petroline’s chairman Klaas Zwarts who sold his company in 2000 for £104million. Build on clever ideas and commercialising them. If these companies could do those deals years ago, why can’t we now?
What word or phrase in businessspeak exasperates you?
‘Think outside the box’ – because sometimes the most innovative solutions come from diving deeper in the box we already have.
Boosting my endorphins at the gym and spending time with my little boy. I used to base jump and skydive. Although that couldn’t be described as relaxing.
If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I’d eliminate the devolved administration to save millions annually, normalise the tax system with the rest of the UK, and eliminate the oil and gas levy.
‘Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again’ is the age old toast welcoming visitors to the Granite City.
This Summer, in the true spirit of Bon Accord, let’s unite as hosts and show how our city can shine.
We’re local and proud of it.
Serving the hospitality sector since 1980
The Russell Anderson Foundation (RAF) is thrilled to confirm that the fifth annual charity ball at Aberdeen’s Chester Hotel raised a record breaking £102,287.
Founder Russell Anderson, the former Aberdeen captain and Scotland international, was left almost lost for words when asked about the event, which was attended by over 300 guests. Anderson said: “In our wildest dreams, we could not have imagined raising such an incredible amount and it was only possible thanks to the contributions of so many.
“Funds raised at the masked ball will allow RAF to support hundreds of additional children and their families, providing them with significant positive lifestyle changes.”
Formed in 2012, the Russell Anderson Foundation began by delivering free football sessions to children in some of the more socially deprived areas of the city. These days, what RAF does encompass so much more than just football.
The whole ethos of the Foundation is to empower children to make good decisions and give them a chance to reach their potential. RAF works with over 2000 children on a weekly basis across 12 partner schools in the city, although a large part of the work remains focused on health and well-being and being physically active.
The Chester Hotel, Aberdeen’s only four-star silver hotel, has unveiled its new summer menu, showcasing the essence of the season with fresh and seasonal dishes inspired by the sea and the sun.
The menu, created by head chef Chris Gray and his team, showcases the best of Scottish produce and innovative combinations of flavours and textures.
Some of the highlights of the summer menu include hake Kiev with lobster butter, a modern twist on the classic chicken dish, cod loin with a mussel and herb crust, served with a white bean cassoulet, and crab cacio e pepe with homemade macaroni shells, a creamy and indulgent pasta dish. For meat lovers, there is za’atar lamb with whipped feta, a tender and aromatic dish with tangy accompaniments and a mushroom burger with truffle mayo, a vegan option that does not compromise on flavour or texture.
Stephen Gow, general manager of The Chester Hotel said: “The summer menu celebrates the quality and diversity of the local and seasonal ingredients we have locally and the creativity and skill of our chefs.
“Our kitchen team is dedicated to using local produce which not only supports local businesses and our community but also ensure the highest quality for our dishes. It offers our guests a taste of summer, with dishes that are light, fresh and satisfying; a true taste of summer.”
STATS Group and National Gas have been awarded the prestigious IGEM/EUA Gas Industry Award for Product of the Year for their collaborative work on substantially reducing emissions on a strategically important pipeline replacement project.
This award recognised their pioneering use of STATS’ Remote Tecno Plug® (RTP) during the Lochside IJ Replacement Project at St Cyrus, and marked the first operational use of the RTP on the National Transmission System.
Following this successful deployment, the RTP will be added to the range of standard solutions available to National Gas for repair and maintenance projects, helping to reduce project timelines and emissions across their pipeline network.
The RTP is an innovative pipeline isolation tool that provides fail-safe, leak-tight double block and bleed isolation. This enabled the 48” diameter pipeline to remain fully pressurised at 55 bar for 56 km during replacement of an insulation joint and was used instead of traditional venting or recompression operations.
Neil Mackay, Group Senior Business Development Manager at STATS, said: “We’re honoured to receive this award recognising the RTP’s innovative design and significant emissions reduction capabilities and look forward to working with National Gas on other strategic national infrastructure projects.”
North-east surface treatment specialist Nexus switched on to the energy transition with their brand-new electric pallet trucks.
The diesel forklift previously moving equipment around has been replaced by two electric pallet trucks, contributing to a 30% reduction in total diesel emissions. Managing Director Ronnie Watt said: “The investment in electric equipment means we can reduce our own carbon footprint which is important in Nexus’s own net zero journey.”
One of Aberdeenshire’s most historic hotels, Macdonald Pittodrie House provides the perfect backdrop for your next corporate event or team away day.
Nestled at the foot of Bennachie, Macdonald Pittodrie House is a luxury venue set within its own ancient grounds and offering breathtaking, natural scenery, including woodland and extensive lawns.
The hotel’s picturesque setting within 300 acres of estate land makes it a popular choice for business events, conferences and team-building exercises, which are all available for private hire.
The hotel can cater for up to 100 delegates and personalises the design of every event that it hosts, including tailoring menus to suit individuals’ specific dietary requirements.
Macdonald Pittodrie House proudly showcases Aberdeenshire’s larder and the hotel is committed to offering locally-sourced produce and fresh ingredients through its award-winning Mither Tap restaurant.
There is a growing trend of clients looking for something new or different that fully engages their staff and keeps morale high. Its dedicated team incorporates creative touches into every event and utilises the venue and outdoor space to its full potential. This includes bespoke corporate BBQ packages, suitable for up to 5,000 people.
Alongside traditional conference and meeting facilities, Macdonald Pittodrie House offers an array of outdoor activities on its doorstep.
The hotel’s dedicated staff works in partnership with clients to understand exactly what they are looking to achieve from their event and ensure that delegates will have a positive and memorable experience from start to finish.
Call our Events Team on 01467 622437 Email us on events@pittodrie-house.co.uk
Aberdeen-based creative marketing agency Mearns & Gill has launched its very own podcast ‘M&G Agency Life’.
Delving deep into the agency’s diverse portfolio of services, including design, brand management, digital marketing, website development, advertising, PR, and media solutions, the podcast promises to offer listeners a blend of invaluable insights and entertainment.
Recorded in the brand-new M&G podcast room, with a focus on providing both informative content and behindthe-scenes fun, ‘M&G Agency Life’ aims to engage audiences while offering a glimpse into the culture of Mearns & Gill. Hosted by the agency’s staff members, Pete, a seasoned radio broadcaster, and Aimee, bringing her unique skill set to the table, the podcast ensures a dynamic listening experience.
“We are delighted to launch ‘M&G Agency Life’,” says Pete. “Hosting and producing the episodes has been immensely rewarding and a lot of fun. I can’t wait to share our experiences with our listeners.”
Caring for loved ones, friends and family members can have a significant impact on the lives of employees, particularly when it comes to career progression. More than two in five unpaid carers are between 46 and 65 years old, with many of them trying to balance the demands of work and caring for a dependant.
Recent changes in employment law now offer more support through the introduction of unpaid Carer’s Leave which is a first for the UK and has been introduced to support employees managing caregiving responsibilities alongside their work commitments.
The introduction of Carer’s Leave in April 2024 is part of a broader shift towards accommodating diverse work-life balances. Carer’s Leave can be requested from day one of employment and grants employees the right to unpaid time off work to provide or organise care for a dependant.
This can include individuals with physical or mental health conditions requiring long-term care, those with disabilities defined by the Equality Act 2010, or elderly family members needing assistance. Carer’s Leave also encompasses care for non-family members who rely on the employee for support.
Align People HR can provide the necessary advice, information and support for working carers such as what an individual or their employees may be entitled to.
The Aberdeenshire-based independent HR and People Development consultancy partners with ambitious SMEs to build great places to work, enabling people and businesses to flourish.
Score, a renowned global leader in engineering excellence with its headquarters in Peterhead, has announced the launch of its visionary new brand.
A frontrunner in advanced engineering technology services in the fields of valve and emissions management, gas turbines, surface technologies and aerospace, Score reveals a bold new logo, tagline, vision, and mission as it embarks on an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.
The unveiling of its new brand identity symbolises Score’s steadfast commitment to innovation, excellence, and supporting its clients in their journey towards decarbonisation and operational optimisation.
Commenting on the brand refresh, Score’s CEO, Nick Dunn, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “Our brand refresh encapsulates not just a visual transformation but a commitment to evolution, innovation, and staying at the forefront of industry advancements. It signifies our values, aspirations, and our unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future alongside our clients and partners.”
As Score embarks on this transformative journey, it remains committed to providing its clients with unparalleled global expertise to ensure daily operational excellence and long-term success.
Odfjell Technology, a leading provider of drilling and well services, has secured an important contract with COSL Drilling Europe AS.
The fixed part of the contract, valued at approximately 160 million NOK, encompasses Tubular Running Services has a duration of three years.
Under the terms of the contract, Odfjell Technology will provide comprehensive Tubular Running Services, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of COSL Drilling Europe AS’s offshore drilling activities.
Elisabeth Haram, EVP of Well Services said: “This contract further strengthens our long-standing relationship with COSL and demonstrates their trust in Odfjell Technology’s ability to deliver high-quality services.”
Scott McGinigal, Chairman, Denis Law Legacy Trust
In today’s fast-paced and everchanging world, the challenges young people face has never been more acute. From issues that hinder their personal growth and development, it is more vital than ever that organisations come together to support young people to thrive. Denis Law Legacy Trust is a charity that has been at the forefront of empowering young people to overcome these obstacles since 2011.
being of participants, many of whom later engage in volunteering and extracurricular activities. Wellbeing indicators such as SHANARRI highlights that young people feel most active, achieving, respected and responsible at Streetsport compared to school or home.
through personal, professional and well-being development to shape their aspirations. The programme has seen several successful pilots, and we look forward to further growing the programme.
Denis Law Legacy Trust operates and delivers free-to-access programmes and positive destination activities for young people in Aberdeen. The Trust was named after the legendary Scottish footballer and proud Aberdonian, Denis Law, who through his own involvement and that of his family continues to play an active role as patron of the charity.
Aberdeen, like many other cities, experiences its share of social and economic disparities with areas in the city falling into the top 10% most deprived communities compared to eight years ago as evidenced by the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. Limited resources in schools and a lack of extracurricular activities can hinder academic achievement, aspirations and overall well-being. Through Streetsport, we provide free sport and creative activity sessions directly into these communities which has a positive impact on the well-
It is no secret that many Aberdonians are concerned about anti-social behaviour – something that Streetsport has successfully reduced through targeted sessions. Alongside Aberdeen City Council and the Johan Cruyff Foundation, we have introduced three Cruyff Courts to the city – including Cruyff Court Neale Cooper in Torry that since 2019 has helped reduce youth anti-social behaviour by 50%.
Further to this, our innovative CLUB 10 programme provides positive opportunities and experiences that support young people and their families affected by imprisonment. Our ambition is to break the cycle of imprisonment and bring families together through shared experience.
The pressures of modern life, such as increased academic expectations, social media and navigating personal relationships can also take its toll on young people. Those from disadvantaged backgrounds may experience exclusion that hinders their development. Our latest programme, Denis Law’s Academy, aims to empower young people
Long-term, the active engagement of young people in decision-making processes is crucial in addressing these issues. Our youth forum, Granite City Speaks fosters a culture of youth empowerment by providing a platform for young people to voice their opinions, contribute to community projects, and lead initiatives that address the needs of young people and their communities.
As challenges grow for charities across the city so does the competition for funding and support. We simply couldn’t have the impact that we do without the help of likeminded organisations, such as Robert Gordon University who we work in partnership with. If you or your organisation would be interested in supporting us in helping young people to thrive, please visit and contact us from here: www.denislawlegacytrust.org
As we approach the General Election, you will not have to look too far to find an empty soundbite.
Regrettably, there are none more vacuous right now than the socalled ‘just transition’.
The UK and Scottish governments are committed to it – yet both are struggling to deliver the policies and pace we need to make it happen.
On the one hand, we have a UK Government taxing the oil and gas sector to death with its Energy Profits Levy (EPL), which is triggering a state of inertia among global investors. And on the other, we have Scottish Government planners struggling to keep up with the pace industry demands for green energy consents, particularly in offshore wind.
Together, they have left our energy industry with two deeply damaging paradoxes.
One, where the appetite for investing in green energy has never been higher, but getting planning consent and grid connection has never been harder.
And another, where the need for domestic energy security has never been greater, yet we are careering down a path which will leave us more reliant upon other countries to provide the gas we need.
The Chamber’s recent Energy Transition survey propelled this issue to front and centre of the election campaign. The survey has charted the highs and lows of the UK’s energy sector for the past 20 years – but never before have its
findings been so important; the need for action so imperative.
It has been compiled through research and industry focus groups with operators, investors and supply chain companies.
Given where the energy industry is globally, it should have been an upbeat report. Higher energy prices would normally mean more investment in the North Sea –with profits, in turn, pouring into offshore wind and other renewables projects.
In theory, things should be better than ever. But confidence has fallen to an all-time low. Industry does not like what it sees, and is clearly fearful of what potentially lies ahead.
From a policy point of view, it should not be complicated. Slow the decline of the North Sea with a fiscal regime that encourages investment and protects jobs,
while at the same time building out renewables at pace, with a laserfocus on job creation.
Our survey shows that the exact opposite is happening. Investment is on hold, and companies are haemorrhaging workers to other parts of the world or to premature retirement.
We have been steadfast in our position that the windfall tax and proposals to halt North Sea drilling will undermine the energy transition, and ultimately cost us the workforce and supply chain we will need to build out and operate our renewable energy infrastructure.
As the likelihood of a Labour government increases day-by-day, there is now a growing consensus around this view.
Investment analysts believe that Sir Keir Starmer’s plans will wipe out 100,000 of 200,000 North Sea jobs by 2029, costing the UK £30billion in investment and £20billion in lost tax receipts.
Who are Labour listening to? Is it the grafters of the North Sea, or the wine bar socialists?
And Unions have perhaps been the most vociferous, with Unite saying Labour will throw workers on the “scrapheap” with its “irresponsible” oil and gas policies.
This is now a big moment for Labour and will reveal who it is they are listening to. Is it the grafters of the North Sea with dirt under their fingernails, or the wine bar socialists with orange paint under theirs? We will soon find out.
We believe the next government has just 100 days to convince industry that there is a future in the UK Continental Shelf.
Failure to do so will result in the current apathy, which was evident throughout our survey, turning to open revolt where companies move on to countries which offer better returns.
Should this transpire, our path to net zero could look more like a road to nowhere. A road that leaves the UK poorer, less energy secure, and beholden to foreign regimes for the energy we need to keep the lights on and our economy running.
To set a different path – one where the UK seizes the huge economic opportunities of the energy transition – requires a diversity of thought and approach, not more politics.
We need a new body, free of political interference, to make the right decisions for the long-term future of our energy sector.
I thought that was important before. I now believe it is essential.
Ryan Crighton, Director of policy and marketing, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
Aberdeenshire headquartered integrated services provider, AquaTerra Group, has announced four significant decommissioning contract wins totalling a seven-figure sum.
These latest projects represent a notable increase in AquaTerra’s roster of decommissioning projects between 2023 and 2025.
While late life and decommissioning services are not new areas of work for AquaTerra, the past year has marked several firsts including the first time that the company has been subcontracted by Dutch offshore contractor, Allseas.
Allseas has entrusted AquaTerra with a contract on Enquest’s Heather Alpha platform supporting the EPRD project through the provision of engineering, fabrication, access, and construction teams to complete underdeck preparation scopes for topside removal.
On TAQA’s Cormorant Alpha platform, AquaTerra supported Allseas by removing underdeck obstructions in preparation for topside removal. Following on from the success of this project, AquaTerra was then subcontracted by Wood for a further scope of work on the same platform.
By utilising the company’s lifting and rigging equipment and services, including QuikDeck, its modular suspended access platform, AquaTerra also won its first decommissioning contract with CNR International on the Ninian South platform, supporting conductor decommssioning.
Stephen Taylor, Managing Director of AquaTerra Group, said: “The team and I are delighted that we were selected by Allseas through what was a competitive tendering process for the Enquest and TAQA projects. This is also the first time that we have worked with Wood in several years, so it is great to be supporting them again.”
North-east based consultancy Integrity HSE have taken another big strategic step by completing their first acquisition, only 14 months after opening their doors.
The firm have acquired Praesidio Ltd in May – an organisation that specialises in emergency response and business continuity.
Integrity HSE, a global HSE and training company based out of their Queens Road offices in Aberdeen, tipped the scales in their first year with revenues of £1.2million, and are positioning themselves to continue that growth trajectory with £2.5million in their second year. Integrity HSE are now able to add several new service lines to their already impressive offering.
Steven Harris, Managing Director of Integrity HSE said: “Welcoming Praesidio to the Integrity HSE family has been a pleasure. Their team of senior ex-police and armed forces personnel from across the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and Middle East have the potential to add a huge amount of value to our clients.”
Rob Diver, ex-Operations Director at Praesidio and now Head of Risk & Resilience at Integrity HSE said: “The fit with Integrity HSE was obvious, from day one. This collaboration builds on all the great work done by both companies and allows us to align behind our collective values and offer some truly industry leading solutions to the market.”
Hunting PLC, the global engineering group, is delighted to announce that it has secured a $145million OCTG order with KOC through their distributor in Kuwait.
The order comprises a large quantity of premium OCTG casing, to be supplied by Hunting via its endto-end integrated OCTG supply chain in Asia Pacific. The casing will be threaded with Hunting’s proprietary SEAL-LOCK premium connection technology at its facilities across Asia Pacific, with revenue expected to be recognised from late Q4 2024 and into 2025.
Delivering the highest quality OCTG products on time together with Hunting’s unsurpassed service offering remains key to the Group’s success. Including this new order, the Group’s sales order book has increased to $665million, which is the highest in the company’s history and provides strong earnings visibility for the group’s Asia Pacific operating segment and OCTG product group into 2025.
Business Development and Commercial Director, Bilfinger UK
What does your company do that others don’t?
Bilfinger can provide a fully integrated service to clients across the energy market, from engineering through to inspection and maintenance, while promoting efficiency and sustainability for our customers. We’re one of the largest employers in the North Sea, established in the area for over 50 years, and continually looking to improve our service offerings.
What are the most pressing challenges that your industry sector faces today, and why?
I think the most significant challenges are on retaining and attracting people to the industry against a backdrop that isn’t always positive, and failing to recruit and retain the necessary capabilities and expertise into the industry will slow the UK’s ability to meet its energy security and climate goals. To enable the delivery of a fair and just energy transition, we as industry leaders, need to collaborate and commit to creating a pathway for our workforce as we accelerate toward renewables and clean energy markets, but we also need to provide them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the ever-evolving energy landscape. We cannot have consistent growth in the economy and deliver net zero without our skilled and experienced workforce.
What is the hardest lesson you have learned in your career to date?
Don’t take anything for granted. I very much operate on the principle of ‘you’re only as good as your last game’, so you must be continually improving. Success in the past doesn’t guarantee future success, so it’s essential to stay motivated and continually seek ways to enhance your skills and performance. In many careers, staying ahead requires a commitment to learning and adapting. I enjoy embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and always want to be evolving and staying relevant.
What is the most valuable piece of business advice you have ever received?
Treat everyone with kindness, whether it’s in business or in your private life. I know as a principle it’s so simple, but it’s so important and very easy to forget, everyone responds better to sugar than vinegar! In the business world, relationships and interactions form the foundation of success. Whether I’m dealing with colleagues, clients, customers, or partners, approaching interactions with kindness fosters a positive and collaborative environment. When you respect and value other’s input, you’re contributing to a positive working environment.
What was your first job?
I worked in the MacFish fish factory in Fraserburgh when I was 16 years old.
When would you like to retire?
ASAP! Failing that, I’d love to retire before 60.
What did you have for breakfast?
Bagel with peanut butter, an apple, and a large coffee.
Who, or what, inspires you?
My son. I want to set a good example for him. My parents. They gave me my work ethic and approach to life.
What’s the last book you read / film you saw?
Disney’s Princess and the Frog, I’m a sucker for a Disney movie!
With a history spanning more than 50 years, Macdonald Aviemore Resort has built an enviable reputation for delivering conferences and corporate events for UK and international business travellers.
Set in the heart of the Cairngorms, the resort’s talented team has taken the service offering to the next level and created a leading conference destination in the north of Scotland.
Increasingly, Macdonald Aviemore Resort is competing nationally, and even globally, for prestigious conference bookings; demonstrating the confidence clients and event organisers have in its ability to deliver excellent service and attention to detail.
Under the guidance of its recently appointed senior management team, the awardwinning resort has secured a raft of new business for exclusive use conferences this year.
In 2024, Macdonald Aviemore Resort is welcoming more than 2,000 delegates from across the UK and further afield for numerous flagship events covering a wide range of sectors.
Macdonald Aviemore Resort offers a state-of-the-art conference centre for hosting meetings, exhibitions, product launches, and large-scale events while providing guests with professional hotel-level service from the moment they arrive.
The resort offers an array of meeting rooms, a 650seat auditorium, and 1,000m² Osprey Arena, capable of holding up to 1,150 delegates. Its ability to host largescale international events is supported by exceptional amenities, including versatile event spaces and four-star accommodations, to ensure a premium experience for all attendees.
Recently named the north of Scotland’s best four-star venue at the Scottish Hotel Awards, the resort proudly showcases the best-quality traditional Scottish cuisine with particular emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced produce and ingredients.
The Highland facility – which is available for exclusive use for the largest conferences and events – also features three four-star hotels, 19 woodland lodges, a championship golf course, three restaurants, a cinema, and luxury shopping.
Craig Wilson, also known as the Kilted Chef, is the owner of the award-winning, two AA rosette restaurant Eat on the Green in Udny Green, Aberdeenshire. With over 30 years in the industry, Craig is passionate about locally grown produce and showcasing the best of Scotland’s larder. Since he opened his restaurant in 2004, Craig has earned a loyal customer base and received wide recognition amongst local and national industry awards.
Named a Regional Food Tourism Ambassador for Aberdeenshire by Scotland Food & Drink, Craig played a key role in raising Scotland’s profile as a global food tourism destination. Craig has been part of several ‘food tourism’ journeys, working closely with Scottish Development International and the Scottish Tourism Alliance to promote Scotland’s wonderful larder. Last year he was invited by the Scottish Government to deliver a taste of the Scottish Islands, serving Macduff scallops and Stornoway black pudding at the Ambassador’s Residence in Paris.
A member of the Federation of Chefs, Craig was also inducted into the Masterchefs of Great Britain. Craig latest project sees him travel the length and breadth of Aberdeenshire, speaking to food and drink producers and companies, in his Love of Aberdeenshire six-part series which is streamed on the Kilted Chef YouTube channel and social media pages.
Craig visited over twenty establishments during his tour and spoke to the people behind the businesses, to find out more about the methods and practices used to create delicious produce from land and sea. The Love of Aberdeenshire Food Tour was a year in the making. It showcases a handpicked selection of local businesses, telling their story in their own environment, and giving a behind-the-scenes insight into what it takes to create the outstanding produce found here in the North-east.
After 20 years of running his award-winning restaurant Eat on the Green, Craig and his wife Lindsay, announced they will officially close the establishment, on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
Since it opened in 2004, Eat on the Green has become one of the most renowned restaurants in the North-east, with a loyal customer base and dedicated team of young staff.
The restaurant was named ‘Best Eating Experience’ in Scotland at the 2019 Scottish Thistle Awards, in recognition of Eat on the Green’s commitment to working with local suppliers to access the freshest, homegrown ingredients in their dishes, something which has remained a strong focus. The team also retained their two AA rosettes for Culinary Excellence for the 16th year running, reflecting their dedication to deliver a high-quality food and drink experience.
In 2018 Craig Wilson launched the Kilted Chef Ltd brand, which runs alongside Eat on the Green, delivering a wide range of food and drink projects.
Craig commented: “We put Eat on the Green on the market over two years ago. During this time, it has been ‘business as usual’ as we have continued to deliver the high-quality food and service that we are known for. After careful consideration, we took the decision to close the doors of Eat on the Green at the end of September.
“The business will remain up for sale, however we will continue to offer the Kilted Chef Dine at Home restaurant boxes, beyond September. We established this service during lockdown, and demand remains high for this restaurant-standard dining, enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. I will also be exploring opportunities via the Kilted Chef Ltd company, delivering consultancy support, product development, luxury catering solutions and industry collaborations.
“The Kilted Chef brand also took its first steps into the drinks market and launched our own range of gin, a delicious Scottish summer berry and our Fireside gin, a warming, spiced gin. We are currently working on expanding this range, in partnership with The Gin Bothy. The next few months are exceptionally busy at Eat on the Green, and we are exceptionally grateful for the continued support we have received, following the announcement of our closure, and I hope that our loyal customer base will remain with us as we explore the next chapter.”
For further information about the Kilted Chef Dine at Home restaurant box visit www.kiltedchefdineathome.com
What does your company do that others don’t?
At the National Trust for Scotland, we offer visitors and locals a unique, authentic experience of North-east Scotland’s rich history, culture and landscapes. Our independent charity cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s magnificent heritage and with over 300,000 members, we’re the country’s largest membership organisation. Every day, our members, volunteers and staff look after and share an astonishing variety of things – from munros to nature reserves, castles to whole villages.
There’s eleven special NTS places in the North-east region for the public to visit: castles, houses, gardens and over 1000 hectares of treasured countryside. We’re passionate about the care of these buildings, collections and natural habitats, while also delivering an outstanding experience, sharing them with as many visitors as we can.
What are the most pressing challenges that your industry sector faces today, and why?
Aberdeen City and Shire welcomed over three million overnight visitors and 2.5 million day visitors in 2023 – contributing over £1.3billion to the local economy. That’s a 32% growth on pre-pandemic highs in 2019 and gives an idea of our collective potential.
Destination tourism is a fast-moving and highly competitive global market however - and it hasn’t always been a priority for the North-east. I very much believe that the region already has all the elements to be recognised
as a world class destination, and the Trust continues to support significant North-east capital projects. The figures show that as an industry and region, we’ve made great leaps. But we need to keep up the pace: finding ways to work better as a whole region, continually improve the visitor experience and really take pride in shouting about what makes us special.
What’s been your proudest career achievement to date and why?
I’ve fortunately been involved with many brilliant teams, delivering projects like the rebrand and regeneration of Blackpool before returning to Scotland.
However, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved for the Trust and heritage in the North-east recently. Rebounding from the pandemic and devastating storms so quickly is testament to everyone’s dedication and hard work. We welcomed over 616,000 visitors to our places last year, smashing through the half a million visitors mark for the very first time.
What’s more, our charity has raised funds and delivered an incredible number of projects in the last couple of years: restoring the famous pink hues of Craigievar Castle, opening a new rose garden at Crathes, the Chris Beardshaw designed modern parterres at Pitmedden, a full redevelopment and new costume-led visitor experience at House of Dun, a groundbreaking acre of natural play at Drum opening this summer, and planting hundreds of thousands of
new native trees across the region, to name just a few! It’s truly inspiring to see our efforts contribute to the cultural vibrancy and economic wellbeing of North-east Scotland.
If you could make one thing happen tomorrow that would benefit North-east Scotland, what would it be?
A skilled and passionate workforce is vital for the continued success of North-east Scotland’s visitor economy. Everyone’s aware of the difficulties hospitality and visitor attractions are facing in recruiting talent to meet growing demand – and this is particularly challenging for heritage and garden attractions.
We’ve upped our recruitment presence, created new promotional careers materials, and launched modern apprenticeships. Our first retail apprentice started at Crathes in June, with others in hospitality, rangers service, HR, digital marketing and cultural attractions joining us across the Trust. The National Trust for Scotland’s continuing investment shows our commitment to Aberdeenshire’s heritage and the belief we have in the growing visitor economy. Collectively sharing this passion and promoting the phenomenal growth and opportunities in the North-east will really help turn people’s heads toward potential careers in the area.
Entrepreneurs have been rewarded at Robert Gordon University (RGU) for their innovations following the University’s latest Startup Accelerator Showcase.
Hosted on campus for the first time, the showcase saw eight of the 16-strong start-up cohort pitch in front of a live in-person and online audience to compete for a series of awards that could propel their ideas into reality.
Big winners on the night included Cardio Intel who won £10k having scooped both the Innovation Impact award and the Audience Choice award for their digital twin technology aimed to reduce heart disease mortality.
In what is major news for the programme’s future, it was announced on the night that next year’s Accelerator will be funded by Aberdeen City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), part of UK Government’s Levelling Up programme.
First launched in 2018 with support from the Wood Foundation, the Startup Accelerator is the flagship programme of RGU’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Group (EIG) and involves five months of collaboration, idea development, and training workshops for participants. It has supported over 130 businesses across the region and significantly contributed towards the social, cultural and economic development of the North-east.
Donella Beaton, Vice Principal for Economic Development at RGU, said: “It was my honour to once again judge at an Accelerator Showcase, made even more special this year with RGU staff taking part again.
“The sustained commitment and efforts in embedding entrepreneurialism at the University is sector leading and a vital component of our strategic mission to transform people and communities.”
The University is successfully embedding entrepreneurialism throughout its courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level by introducing specific modules and university wide student programmes and competitions through the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Group.
Gavin Shirley, Senior Development Project Manager, RES
The far-reaching benefits derived from the renewables and tourism industries cannot be overstated; presenting an opportunity which only strengthens when these two exciting sectors work together.
Earlier this year, RES became the latest organisation to support Highland Tourism CIC’s Highland Renewables activity, a group that has come together to help pave the way for the Highlands to become one of the world’s leading sustainable destinations through protecting the environment and showcasing the region as a prime location in which to live, visit, study, work and invest.
Many studies over the years have dispelled the misconception that onshore wind turbines negatively affect tourism. In fact, the growth of onshore wind farms in a particular area often correlates, coincidentally, with an increase in tourism.
One of the most referenced studies on this subject is BIGGAR Economics’ 2021 study titled ‘Wind Farms & Tourism Trends in Scotland: Evidence from 44 Wind Farms.’ This detailed piece of work found that ‘in the majority of cases, tourism-related employment in the vicinity of wind farms had outperformed the trend for Scotland as a whole and for the local authority area in which the wind farm was based.’
For example, in relation to Aberdeenshire, the BIGGAR study
found that between 2009 and 2019 the installed capacity of onshore wind farms in the county increased from 61MW by 495MW. During the same period, employment within Aberdeenshire in tourism-related sectors increased by 28% - exceeding the Scottish average of 20% over that decade.
Earlier studies also support the fact that onshore wind farms do not negatively affect tourism, with VisitScotland’s 2012 ‘Wind Farm Consumer Research’ study finding that 83% of Scottish respondents would not be discouraged from visiting or staying in an area by the presence of a wind farm.
Furthermore, onshore wind farms can even become tourist attractions in their own right – offering safe and scenic places for visitors to enjoy a walk or cycle ride in the area they’re visiting – or hosting annual running races, for example.
Many wind farms are specifically designed to improve access and recreation opportunities, such as the Hill of Fare Wind Farm proposal near Banchory which was submitted into planning last year by British renewable energy company RES.
Hill of Fare is a 16-turbine wind farm proposal which lies in an area identified by Aberdeenshire Council as having ‘potential for wind farm development’. If consented, it would
be capable of reducing the equivalent of 69,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year within the grid-mix of fossil fuels and delivering a £150 million boost for the local economy.
In partnership with the landowner, Dunecht Estate, RES is proposing to create car-parking facilities on the east side of the hill to improve recreational access to Hill of Fare Wind Farm; and establish a cultural heritage trail with designated pathways and interpretation boards to link key heritage assets in the local area. Land rental income from the Hill of Fare Wind Farm will also open the opportunity for Dunecht Estate to potentially renovate the shooting lodge on site - making it an off-grid shelter for visitors to rest and discover more about the Estate.
RES has been developing, constructing and operating wind farms across Scotland since 1993 with its first wind farm in the Highlands becoming operational in the early 2000s. RES has continuously invested in the region through partnerships with the local supply chain, supporting apprenticeship initiatives and more recently partnering with the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) to support their Student Development Fund, demonstrating the British company’s long-term commitment to this area.
For more information, please visit www.hilloffare-windfarm.co.uk
It’s no secret that cinema is experiencing a historically difficult era. The pandemic switched the cameras off, while strikes in Hollywood have prevented the industry from capitalising on the momentum built by the Barbenheimer craze.
Closer to home, it’s been an even more brutal time for independent filmhouses.
A 2023 survey from the Independent Cinema Office found that 42% of independent cinemas expect to close in the next three to twelve months, while nearly half (45%) said they would make a loss in the 2023/24 financial year.
Sadly for Aberdonians, the muchloved Belmont Filmhouse never lasted that long.
“The sudden nature of the cinema closing, it’s maybe too emotive a word but I know for many people, audiences, staff, it was devastating to see it shut in that way.”
That’s Sarah Dingwall, she’s tasked with fundraising millions of pounds for the Belmont Community Cinema to reopen the famous Aberdeen institution.
“Everyone’s got a story about going to the Belmont, not only what they saw there and what happened, but who they were with and the feeling of closeness of seeing a film there,” she said.
“I saw this [job] come up and because it’s a cause close to my heart I was very keen to get involved and I think there’s a groundswell of support for it. I’ve not spoken to anyone who doesn’t think the Belmont is, and will be, a wonderful thing.
“It made me think it’s achievable, a brilliant project to be a part of and something good for Aberdeen.”
Sarah’s background in fundraising is extensive. She played a key role in the £57million Sir Duncan Rice library at the University of Aberdeen, as well as working on projects for Robert Gordon University.
The first £2million for the Belmont Community Cinema will go towards a “thoughtful refurbishment, heating, ventilation and the audio and cinema equipment”, according to Sarah.
She added: “We have also raised money for revenue funding but that’s a different stream.
“I have absolutely no doubt that we’ll raise the money, we’ve made a good start already.
“I think we’re at £365,000 and that’s come from a mix of donors, grant funding, Aberdeen City Council and, most importantly to me, the generous foresight of people in Aberdeen, people who love the cinema. Community groups as well have given back.”
Things are progressing so well that there’s ambitions for bums to be on seats in the Belmont as early as next year.
Not long ago, that felt like a distant dream for the group’s Chair, Jacob Campbell.
The North-east film fanatic was one of the founders of the original campaign to save the cinema, which launched just hours after it closed.
“We’ve been on a journey,” he said, underselling the sheer volume of work he and his colleagues have put into this project.
He continued: “We started back in October 2022 after the previous operation went to administration and it was about a community coming together and saying: ‘well, actually, we can have nice things in Aberdeen, and we deserve to have these things.’
“Now, as we get further on, we’ve just launched this fundraising campaign which I’m sure that the people of Aberdeen are going to respond to positively.
“It’s becoming very, very real that we can have this back. We can have an independent cinema in Aberdeen.
“We don’t just have to accept a managed decline and continuing with things getting slightly worse, and we can actually have nice things.
“I think that’s the kind of mood in Aberdeen at the moment. We’ve been down, but we’re on the way back up again. And that’s a great thing for the city.”
I’ve not spoken to anyone who doesn’t think the Belmont is, and will be, a wonderful thing.
When the wheels were put in motion and the campaign picked up steam, Jacob and co were quick to recruit a series of experts, including Sarah, to help them on their journey.
In June, they unveiled their new branding.
“The guys at FortyTwo Studio have been fantastic with us, they’ve really led us on a journey to make this this new identity for what will become a focal point of culture in Aberdeen again.
“We delved deep into everything that the new Belmont brands needs to do, to help us make the transition from a fundraising campaign to successful reopening of the cinema, encapsulating our core themes of film, education, community and customer experience.”
“Their ethos is very much around the community and wanting to see good things happen in Aberdeen, so it was quite a good fit when they came on board.”
Throughout the entire process, the group has sought to work with local people and local companies to deliver for a local audience.
“We’ve also just unveiled our new floor plans for what each of the floors is going to look like in the new cinema,” Jacob added.
“Tinto Architecture has led us through this part of the project.
The designs show a well-lit, retroinspired space facing onto Belmont Street, with a bright kiosk space leading into a classical looking theatre.
The basement bar has a chic, intimate look, ideal to relax before or after a film.
“We really, really want to make sure that everybody can have a great time in this venue and making sure it’s a cinema that everybody in Aberdeen can be proud of.
“[Tinto Architecture] supported us through the process from talking to quantity surveyors, to design what the cinema is going to look like. Everything from finding the right materials, to making it the most sustainable operation possible.
“We’ve assembled a really, really good team.”
Plans are also being drawn up for community outreach when the cinema is open and operational.
The Station House Media Unit (SHMU) is a community anchor organisation, supporting residents in the seven regeneration areas of Aberdeen in radio and video production, traditional and on-line publications, music production and digital inclusion.
They’ve teamed up with the Belmont as its education partner.
Designs for the second-floor of the facility show a welcoming, open space with SHMU branding and colours clear throughout.
Jacob said: “Murray [Dawson, Chief Executive] reached out to us quite early on in this project, once things were getting moving.
“We’re very, very excited to be working with them. They are testament to the values that they hold dear.
“They empower communities, they go out, they give people the skills that they need to get on in life.
“We can give back to the next generation, and if we can do that on the top floor at the Belmont in partnership with SHMU I think that’s a really exciting thing for Aberdeen, particularly as we don’t know maybe what the economies of the future in Aberdeen are going to look like.”
Key to the Belmont’s mission, and central to absolutely everything they do, is community.
Jacob said, proudly: “This will be the first time that the Belmont is going to be operated out of Aberdeen since about the 1960s and that’s a really exciting and wonderful thing.”
He continued: “It’s testament to the team that we’ve managed to put together. It’s testament to the community that we’ve managed to build. And I think that’s the thing that’s going to make it stand out from everywhere else.
“The new operation of the Belmont, will be rooted in the communities that we seek to serve, bringing people good cinema, putting our communities on screen, and making sure that everybody has the opportunity to see themselves on screen, but also to see the things that they value on screen as well.”
In spite of troubles facing cinema, the team at the Belmont have a structured, researched plan in place that has no reason not to succeed.
The creative sector has struggled in Aberdeen, in Scotland, and further afield, since the pandemic, but the Belmont Community Cinema could be the catalyst to change.
The final question posed to both Jacob and Sarah, arguably the biggest of the lot: ‘What film would you show first when the cinema reopens?’
“It would probably be Cinema Paradiso,” Sarah said.
“It’s a film about someone who loves cinema, who opens a cinema, and it shows how important the cinema is to a community.”
Jacob opted for an option closer to home.
“Tetris, by John Baird.
“He’s a local boy done good.”
Port of Aberdeen, the UK’s oldest existing business with the country’s newest harbour, shared its ambitious vision to become a national hub for floating offshore wind with Mairi McAllan MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Net Zero.
Touring the port’s £420million Aberdeen South Harbour expansion, which officially opened in September 2023, Ms McAllan was presented with the port’s evolution into a world-class marine logistics hub for the offshore wind industry, alongside its ongoing support for North Sea oil and gas operations.
Ms McAllan was briefed on a planned £25million project aimed at optimising South Harbour to meet the emerging demands of floating offshore wind, by deepening the eastern section of the basin. Port of Aberdeen is located within 100 nautical miles of 17GW of planned floating offshore wind, making it ideally suited to support ScotWind and INTOG floating developments.
This strategic upgrade will allow Port of Aberdeen and the region’s expert energy supply chain to manage hundreds of turbine integration and marshalling projects as well as longer term tow-in, tow-out major component exchange and maintenance.
Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Net Zero Mairi McAllan said: “Scotland’s ports are crucial in realising our huge offshore wind potential and it’s fantastic to see Port of Aberdeen invest in Scotland’s future and our journey to net zero - further demonstrating the ambition of everyone involved in developing Scotland’s offshore wind sector.
“It will bring green jobs, skills and revenue to the Aberdeen area, while helping to ensure that our world-leading infrastructure facilities can deliver our offshore renewables revolution.”
Clan Cancer Support has announced Bilfinger UK and Hellmann Worldwide Logistics as headline sponsors for its art trail in 2025.
The leading North-east cancer charity, in partnership with Wild in Art, will exhibit BookBench sculptures across the North-east, Moray, Orkney and Shetland next year in The BookBench Trail.
Both Bilfinger UK and Hellmann were both sponsors for The Big Hop Trail which raised £202,600 for the charity at auction in 2023.
Hellmann will return as headline sponsor and will once again further support the project by storing all BookBench sculptures at its Dyce facility before they go on public display from July to September next year.
Bilfinger has agreed the remaining headline sponsor opportunity for the project, following the success of its sculpture sponsorship for The Big Hop Trail.
Ruth McIntosh, Clan’s Business Development Manager, said: “Both Bilfinger and Hellmann have already experienced the rewarding journey of being a trail sponsor and we are delighted they have seen the value in renewing, and in the case of Bilfinger – upgrading their commitment for The Book Bench Trail.
“We are incredibly grateful for their continued support and look forward to working with the teams to ensure the partnerships continue to be meaningful and beneficial to both organisations and ultimately, enable Clan to support more people impacted by a cancer diagnosis.”
Caledonian Sleeper has partnered with Arbikie Distillery to launch a brand-new, limited edition gin inspired by the overnight train’s epic journey from London to Scotland.
One of Scotland’s most sustainable distilleries, Arbikie and the Caledonian Sleeper team have created a limited edition gin using their field to bottle approach to distilling and selecting a range of local ingredients grown by the farm.
This unique gin features notes of kelp, carline thistle and blaeberries to give a hint of the ocean, rock and land surrounding Arbikie. The gin also includes a few ‘secret’ ingredients inspired by the Caledonian Sleeper’s overnight journey from London to Scotland’s quaint towns, vibrant cities and spectacular Highlands.
Sharlene Rennie, Sales & Events Manager , Palm Court Hotel, Part of Scotsman Hospitality
Give us the elevator pitch for your business
The Palm Court Hotel is located in the West End of Aberdeen. The hotel benefits from our Bothy bar and restaurant serving local Scottish dishes, four meeting and function dining spaces and 23 beautiful bedrooms. We pride ourselves on our amazing customer service. We are currently No. 1 in Aberdeen on Trip Advisor.
Tell us about your management style and how it has worked for you?
I am very hard working and organised and this is key to being on top of a very busy workload. I lead by example, I’m fair but firm when needed and believe that being a team player is a massive part of the success of the hotel.
What is the biggest barrier you overcame in the workplace and how did you tackle it?
I believe this is the recent cost of living and increased costs crisis. Not only have we seen the impact ourselves as a business due to increased costs but we are also treading a fine line in not increasing our prices beyond guest expectations as we do not want to create a decline in business.
What is the best bit of business or life advice you have ever received?
Be kind, treat others the way in which you wish to be treated.
What’s your top tip for someone joining your organisation today?
You must have a passion and interest in hospitality. It’s a tough industry but the rewards from providing great food, drinks and customer service is overwhelmingly satisfying.
SugarBird Wines has launched a lunchtime special menu at its two popular city centre venues on Union Grove and Union Terrace, offering the perfect environment for customers to network, take a brief break from the 9-5, or for general catch ups.
For £15.95 per person, the menu includes a 175ml glass of one of the following wines: Pink Valley Rosé, Fryers Cove Sauvignon Blanc, or Viña Amezola Rioja Crianza, along with either a delicious cheese and charcuterie platter or a vegan platter for one.
Bringing something new to the city centre lunchtime scene, the offer is available from 12-4pm, Tuesday to Friday at SugarBird in the Gardens, and Wednesday to Friday at SugarBird Wines Union Grove.
Ruth Grahame, Co-owner of SugarBird Wines, said: “We’re really excited to bring this new lunchtime offer to the table. Since opening SugarBird Wines in 2021, and SugarBird in the Gardens at the end of 2023, we’ve been passionate about elevating everyday moments with our welcoming and relaxing venues.
“Introducing this menu is an extension of that, offering customers a unique location for flexible workers to dine, as well as an informal environment for colleague meetings, or simply those looking for an alternative to evening catchups.”
Expro, a leading provider of energy services, has successfully completed its 100th job globally with its field-proven cementing technology, SeaCure®, marking a significant milestone.
The completion of this landmark project emphasises Expro’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service to its clients worldwide.
The 100th SeaCure® job was completed as part of a project in Australia consisting of a five-well subsea batch campaign, highlighting Expro’s expertise in providing comprehensive solutions for complex offshore operations.
SeaCure® technology, which was originally developed by DeltaTek, played a pivotal role in maintaining the quality primary cementation of the conductors while mitigating several risks associated with placement of the cement slurry.
Commenting on this milestone achievement, Alistair Geddes, Expro’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Reaching our 100th global SeaCure® job is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, as well as the strength of our technology and solutions.
One of Scotland’s largest supercomputing clusters has hit a milestone of 100 million hours of computing time performed on cutting edge UK science.
The UK CropDiversity High-Performance Computing (HPC) cluster, hosted and managed by independent research organisation The James Hutton Institute in North-east Scotland, has also handled more than 400 terabytes of new data in the last 12 months alone –equivalent to around 100,000 HD movies.
LoLo + Co, the chic clothing boutique founded by Lauren and Rose Reid, is set to revolutionise the shopping experience with their innovative After Hours Shopping Experience.
The After Hours Shopping Experience provides customers with the luxury of private, closed-door shopping sessions. This service, available by appointment between 5pm and 7pm, allows shoppers to enjoy the store’s offerings without the usual hustle and bustle.
Whether it’s a busy mum looking for some undisturbed ‘me time,’ a professional with limited free hours, or anyone wanting a serene shopping spree, LoLo + Co ensures a tailored and peaceful environment.
Lauren Reid expressed her enthusiasm about this new venture, highlighting the benefits of private shopping: “We are thrilled to offer our customers this unique experience. It’s perfect for those who need a break from their busy lives, or simply wish to enjoy a relaxed shopping atmosphere.”
Shoppers can either browse solo with a complimentary tea or coffee or enjoy a styling session with friends. The knowledgeable staff at LoLo + Co will be on hand to offer personalised styling advice and help curate outfits for any occasion.
LoLo + Co’s new collections feature renowned brands such as GANT, Purotatto, Penny Black, SAND Copenhagen, and many more. This exclusive experience is available at their newly opened shop located at 226 Union Street, Aberdeen.
Blackadders LLP has announced an exciting move to a new Dundee office in the heart of the city centre.
The Scottish law firm and wealth management firm will move to DC Thomson’s Meadowside building, leasing the first floor and a section of the ground floor from the content, technology and investments business.
Nearly 130 staff members who work in legal and support services across Commercial Property, Corporate, Employment, Dispute Resolution, Family Law, Private Client, Property, Residential and Rural Land and Business will move to the recently refurbished open plan office.
Emma Gray, Joint Managing Partner of Blackadders said: “It’s fantastic to be staying in the centre of Dundee, sharing the premises of another well-known Dundee business and an iconic building in the city.”
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Here comes the summer and here comes the offer.
Access all areas for just £55 for two months. Whatever you want from summer - we’ve got it. Get prepped for summer.
I arrived at Porsche Centre Aberdeen in Wellington Road early to collect the keys for my test drive but ended up behind schedule as I was immediately sucked in to what used to be described as a brilliant and wide-ranging ‘all things petrolhead’ chat with Centre Principal Darren Cuthbertson and some of his team.
At first glance, the Taycan’s sleek and dynamic exterior design conveys both the brand’s signature sportiness and a forward-thinking image — perfect for professionals looking to make a strong impression. The vehicle’s assertive stance speaks volumes about the power beneath, while the aerodynamic lines underscore efficiency, which is a core aspect of this four-door electric saloon.
As I got into the sleek looking Taycan
experience of an EV, I reflected that the term petrolhead might be becoming a thing of a bygone era. What is the 21st century equivalent, I mused? E-head somehow didn’t seem to cut it.
The dazzling array of technology was brilliantly explained to me by the resident Porsche Pro (great job title) Di Winston. The advanced infotainment system provided simple integration with my iPhone (even I could connect it), enabling business users to have the required constant connectivity and access to real-time data.
Not being experienced in such matters, Di also provided a masterclass in the process of charging the car whose 800-volt architecture produces charge power of up to 320 kW with a direct current and the Taycan can be charged from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes.
and 421 miles on a single full charge.
to hear that the Taycan can travel between 360 and 421 miles on a single full charge. Meaning professionals can minimise downtime during trips, ensuring they arrive on time without the worry often associated with range or lengthy charging periods.
And we took advantage, driving far and wide in City and Shire without the need to plug in.
The Porsche Taycan is available in three body styles - Saloon, Cross Turismo and Sport Turismo and I was in a Taycan S Sport Turismo model. Porsche is synonymous with performance, and their electric range is no different. The car I was in can effortlessly shift from 0-60mph in just 4 seconds with 530 PS. Which in German means pferdestarke (horsepower in English).
Heading out of town via the AWPR, I was able to test the Taycan’s acceleration off the mark – and it did not disappoint. It inspired me to change E-head to Torque head! The car offered effortless straight line speed… (I stopped at 70, honest officer).
Moving onto the B roads of the Shire, the steering was sensational
and responsive with a car weighing in at over two tonnes feeling like it was glued to the surface around the winding bends. The unmistakable Porsche handling precision making not only for an exhilarating drive but also ensures that swift, decisive manoeuvres are always within reach. A clumsy metaphor for the quickthinking nature of today’s corporate decision-makers!! And the full leather seats provided the height of comfort while negotiating those twists and turns.
Returning to the city streets, I was taken by just how smooth and quiet the car was - a tranquil oasis from the fast-paced world. The cabin’s quietness - a natural benefit of its electric powertrain – provides a peaceful environment to think between appointments and enabled clear in-car phone calls as I told anyone who would answer my calls, that I was driving a Taycan!
No time for playing golf when I was playing with my new Porsche toy but if I had, the Taycan offers ample boot space for the clubs plus overnight bags.
The environmental credentials of driving an electric vehicle like the Taycan can resonate well with stakeholders who value corporate responsibility and sustainability. In the UK, businesses can benefit from a 100% first-year allowance for new electric vehicles until April 2025. This translates to the entire cost of the Porsche Taycan being deductible from your taxable profits in the year of acquisition.
The Write Down Allowance (WDA) presents a significant opportunity for accelerated tax relief, offering substantial savings for your business.
Or if you plan on using your Taycan for both business and personal use, you can also take advantage of the 2% Benefit-in-Kind tax until 2024/2025, resulting in significantly reduced personal taxation costs compared to comparable petrol or diesel-powered vehicles.
The 2024 Porsche Taycan 4S manages to tread the fine line between luxury, sportiness, and sustainability, all wrapped up in an iconic brand that resonates well in corporate circles. Porsche has not
simply produced another electric vehicle; it has delivered a statementmaking tool for the business world - powerful, silent, and zero-emission - that perfectly encapsulates the forward thinking mindset of the modern business user.
For those looking for an engaging drive, practicality for business needs, and a vehicle that portrays a commitment to sustainable business practices, the Taycan 4S is an impeccable choice.
If you are interested in finding out more about the new Taycan and its business benefits, contact Paul Kelly at Porsche Centre Aberdeen, including your Chamber credentials, to receive an exclusive Chamber member Taycan offer - info@porscheaberdeen.co.uk or 01224 877778
Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
I come from a family of Chefs and hospitality professionals, with both my husband and brother working at our sister hotel, Drumossie, in Inverness. My dad still works as a Chef, while my mum used to run a hotel in the Borders, so it’s fair to say the industry is in my blood. Having progressed from Pastry Chef to Executive Chef, then moved into operations and now to General Manager, I’m fortunate to have experienced all aspects of what it takes to run a successful hotel.
What’s the most effective piece of training or personal development you have undertaken?
Over my 12 years with Macdonald Hotels, the company has always had a strong focus on developing its people. In my previous role, I worked in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce to help encourage more people – including girls and young women – into the workforce, something I plan to continue here at Macdonald Norwood Hall. For too long, hospitality has been seen as a ‘fall back’ option and not encouraged enough as a genuine career path by schools. Finding young people, nurturing them and giving the opportunity to prove themselves are key to the success of any business – especially considering we have a smaller pool of talent available than in years gone by.
What’s the biggest lesson you have learned in business?
Shortly after beginning my career at Macdonald Hotels, a mentor stressed to me the importance of ensuring everything, from a customer ordering a sandwich to a full-blown wedding, are the very best they can be. At every level, whether you are the chef, the porter or the manager, treat the business as if it was your own.
What’s been your proudest career achievement to date?
Making the decision to step out of the kitchen and move front of house. It was hard at first, but it has opened so many opportunities, taught me new skills, and allowed me to stay in an industry and company I love while having a second career. The longer I spent working in the kitchen the more I realised the aspects I enjoyed the most were planning, speaking to suppliers, organising people, and meeting clients. It’s still unusual to see a chef follow this path, especially within a large organisation. My experience means I understand all aspects of the business and can help bridge the gap between the kitchen and other departments.
What’s the best thing about doing business in the north-east of Scotland?
Compared to other parts of Scotland which are reliant on tourism, we enjoy a diverse mix of corporate and leisure guests and bookings. Aberdeen has a close-knit business community where everyone knows
one another, and which encourages long-term, reciprocal relationships.
Both the hospitality industry and the region itself have faced their share of challenges over recent years, but it speaks of the character of the people who live and work in the North-east that we continue to persevere to deliver a consistent, high-quality customer service.
What was your first job?
I was a Kitchen Porter, peeling veg and washing pots and pans.
Who or what inspires you most?
I’m inspired by the team around me and love to help them work through ideas and develop them.
What word or phrase in businessspeak exasperates you?
‘Let’s put a pin in it’ as I like to resolve things there and then.
How do you relax?
A spot of gardening or visiting one of our local beauty spots, like Pitmedden Garden.
If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?
Everyone in the world should have the opportunity to visit Scotland as a tourist at least once and experience all that we have to offer.
Aberdeen’s country house in the city, Macdonald Norwood Hall is a popular choice for the Northeast business community with a proud history of delivering exceptional events.
Located within seven acres of gardens and woodlands on the grounds of the 15th century Pitfodels Castle, the award-winning hotel is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and a tranquil location.
Its proximity to the city centre, as well as several business parks, and complimentary parking makes it the ideal setting for your next meeting or conference.
Boasting a purpose-built conference centre nestled within the hotel grounds, the facilities can cater for between 10 and 200 delegates and provide the latest technology for all your business and communications needs in a range of elegant meeting and function rooms with WiFi throughout.
Each space is designed to work for a variety of events, while specialist event and conference professionals will support you to accommodate any specific requests.
The larger suites can be configured into boardroom, theatre, classroom or cabaret style depending on your requirements, while up to 12 syndicate rooms are available for smaller, private meetings.
Macdonald Norwood Hall can also cater for a wide range of corporate entertainment, including annual dinner dances, award evenings, themed nights and gala dinners.
When dining with colleagues, the hotel’s acclaimed Tapestry Restaurant features traditional Scottish cuisine and it is committed to providing the finest locally-sourced produce and ingredients.
Similarly, the menu for each event – including corporate BBQ packages and private dining – can be tailor-made to suit individual tastes or preferences whilst retaining an emphasis on quality food and drink.
Call our Events Team on 01224 868951
Email us on info@norwood-hall.co.uk
• High quality, cost-effective, flexible solutions to short timescales are the pillars at Raccortubi UK.
• Stock and supply pipes, tubes, fittings and flanges in stainless steel and special alloys,
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Lauren Wilson, Associate, Just Employment Law
The CV19 Pandemic marked the start of a new era of flexible working.
Organisations, who would never have dreamt of permitting home working previously, went remote at short notice; employees balanced caring responsibilities and homeschooling with work; many struggled with work-life balance; and key workers adjusted their hours to enable social distancing. Ultimately, the traditional working model became diluted.
Now, over four years since the start of the pandemic, the trend towards more flexible ways of working continues. Many never went back to their pre-pandemic working pattern and often now expect a higher level of flexibility. This undoubtedly changes how employers recruit, retain and operate.
In consequence of this, and a UK-wide skilled worker shortage, organisations have implemented new offerings to make themselves more attractive as employers, such as fully remote working; hybrid
working; flexi-time; agile working around core hours; annualised hours; enhanced overtime; and shorter working weeks.
Whilst many of these models create more flexibility, the term “flexible working” refers to a specific right under employment law. In the late 1990s, a statutory right to make a flexible working request was introduced. Since then, the regime has grown and developed through changes in legislation, giving a wider group of employees the ability to request changes to their working pattern.
The most recent changes, in April 2024, underline the shift towards more flexibility for workers as they provide that:
• Employees can now submit flexible working requests from day one of employment (previously, they needed six months’ service).
• Employees can make two flexible working requests in any 12-month period (previously, one request in any 12 months).
• Employers are now required to consult with the employee before refusing a request.
• Employers now have to communicate their decision on the flexible working request within two months (previously, three months).
• Employees no longer have to outline the impact they consider the new pattern would have on the employer within their written request.
Employers may still only refuse a flexible working request where one of the following reasons apply:
• burden of additional costs;
• detrimental effect on ability to meet customer demand;
• inability to re-organise work among existing staff;
• inability to recruit additional staff;
• detrimental impact on quality;
• detrimental impact on performance;
• insufficiency of work during the periods the employee proposes to work;
• planned structural changes.
Failing to follow the steps required under the statutory regime and/or unreasonably refusing requests can lead to claims. Some refusals may also amount to indirect discrimination – for example, refusing to allow a woman to work part-time for childcare reasons. Those who make flexible working requests are also protected from detriment and dismissal. Successful claims may result in compensation being awarded.
At Just Employment Law, we help employers of all sizes navigate the challenges of flexible working, largely via our annual retainer service, providing bespoke legal advice for a fixed fee.
If we can support you in this respect, or on any other area of employment law or HR, please contact us on 0141 331 5150 or at justemploymentlaw.co.uk
New chapter for The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa as it’s set to change hands
Balmoral Group, an independent manufacturing and property company, has stated its intent to acquire The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa (The Marcliffe), a renowned fivestar hotel located in Aberdeen. The sale is expected to complete in late June.
The Marcliffe is currently owned and operated by the Spence family, with Ross Spence holding the Managing Director position since his father, Stewart Spence’s, retirement in 2021.
Together, Balmoral Group and the Spence family will define a transition plan for continuity and stability. Balmoral Group does not plan to adjust existing staffing to ensure the quality of service the hotel is known for and there will be no change to current event, wedding and hotel bookings. Acting as an investor, Balmoral Group has appointed Effective Hospitality Management (EHM) to operate the hotel in collaboration with The Marcliffe team.
Balmoral Group was founded in 1980 by Chairman, Sir Jim Milne and has built a reputation for quality and exceptional service through its businesses including Balmoral Comtec across the energy sector, Balmoral Tanks in bulk liquid storage, and Blaze Manufacturing, as well as its business park and property business. The move into the hospitality sector follows several years of successful growth and diversification to acquire and invest in market leading businesses that align with Balmoral Group’s values of excellence, integrity and customer focus.
Sir Jim Milne shared his excitement at the potential acquisition, saying: “The Marcliffe is an Aberdeen institution, and is an establishment very close to my heart. I’ve known the Spence family for a long time, and it feels like a natural progression for Balmoral Group. Stewart is
recognised as one of the best hoteliers in Scotland, and it’s through his work that we have strong foundations to continue his legacy.”
Balmoral Group will continue the ongoing refurbishment programme at the hotel and has plans to inject a substantial initial investment into modernising the hotel’s systems, processes and suites to offer an elevated customer experience and quality.
Sir Jim added: “Maintaining the quality and standards that the Marcliffe is known for, while also retaining jobs, is of the utmost importance to us. We are completely committed to the Aberdeen community through our backing of Friends of ANCHOR and other charitable foundations, and we want The Marcliffe to prosper through our ownership.”
Ross Spence, Managing Director and the son of Stewart Spence, said: “While it’s bittersweet to think we may soon be handing over the keys to The Marcliffe, we know that Balmoral are the perfect fit to continue its legacy. As long-time custodians of The Marcliffe brand, our family has cherished and nurtured it with love and dedication. So much of our lives have been spent here and the staff and regular customers have become family over the years – Sir Jim is part of that. We are confident that Balmoral will honour The Marcliffe’s heritage and care for it with the same passion and commitment that has been at the heart of our family so that the hotel will thrive for decades more.”
Bill Main, Deputy Managing Director at Balmoral Group, commented: “We are looking forward to welcoming The Marcliffe team into Balmoral Group, with the help of EHM we are confident we can make it a seamless transition.”
August 21, 07.30-09.30
Your brand is one of your company’s most important assets. But how do you use it to drive sales and grow the performance of your organisation? Join us for a deep dive into branding and sales at this special Business Breakfast with Lorenzo Moretti.
September 10, 07.30-09.30
We are teaming up with CMS Scotland to host our first ever ‘Dealmakers’ Business Breakfast. Join us and our expert panel as we delve into the region’s mergers and acquisitions market and hear about the underlying trends from some of Scotland’s leading business experts.
November 7, 07.30-09.30
Mark the launch of the 40th Energy Transition report which has been tracking trends in the UK energy sector for two decades and allows the industry to outline exactly what it needs to see from our policy makers.
December 10, 07.30-09.30
Two years on from the emergency summit held to halt the decline of Union Street, we’re gathering to examine the progress being made on our famous high street and how it can find its feet again and return to being the thriving heartbeat of our city.
Customers are the lifeblood of any organisation – without them you cannot exist.
A great customer journey will turn a transactional relationship into an evangelical one.
A bad one can have lasting repercussions for your organisation and reputation.
Our customer service course has been developed by relationship management experts to help your teams deliver the best possible service to delight your customers, and turn them into advocates for your business.
By the end of the course delegates will:
• Learn how technology can aid your customer service offering
• Understand why customer service is essential
• Understand who your customers are, and their needs, wants and perceptions
• Understand the importance of a positive attitude in making a good first and lasting impressions
• Understand the expected service levels between individuals and teams – internal and external to the business
• Recognise the importance of teamwork
• Understand the need to exceed those service levels expectations wherever possible
• Improve and develop exceptional communication skills
• Appreciate the importance of feedback and make improvements
• Be able to deal with aggressive and negative behaviour
• Develop the ability to positively deal with complaints
This comprehensive customer service programme is aimed at anyone who interacts with customers either internally or externally in a business.
Location and duration
This course lasts for one day and is delivered at the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Training Hub by our approved expert trainers.
These sessions are also perfect for groups of staff that require the same training and can also be organised at your offices, or an external location of your choosing.
A good trainer can deliver enormous value to your organisation…but who trains the trainer?
This highly interactive course is designed to enable your trainers to feel confident while developing different techniques to achieve the best results, and to feel comfortable while delivering training to individuals or groups.
Practical sessions that form part of this course will help trainers to focus on utilising their own personal style to best effect.
Delivered by a practicing management skills trainer, it’s packed full of hints and tips that will help your organisation to get better results.
Participants on this course will learn about:
• Preparing and delivering short, effective, engaging training sessions
• Choosing the most effective materials
• Developing training aims and objectives
• Understanding the behaviours, skills and attributes of an excellent trainer
• Training design: what to take into account
• Pulling training content together
• Delivery practice and receiving feedback
• Tips on how we look, act and sound
• Creating the best learning environment
• Understanding the factors that stop people listening and how to counteract them
All newly appointed trainers, supervisors and managers whose job requires them to train/instruct other members of staff. We can also tailor a training programme for your needs with our in-house training courses making them focused, consistent and relevant to your business needs.
This course lasts for one day and is delivered at the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Training Hub by our approved expert trainers.
These sessions are also perfect for groups of staff that require the same training and can also be organised at your offices, or an external location of your choosing.
We also run a Train the (advanced)trainercourse. This training programme is designed to enhance the one day ‘train the trainer’ course and will enable trainers to excel in the delivery of their training.
Meet the woman tasked with attracting tens of millions of pounds to the North-east
Picture the scene: A sunny, balmy Aberdeen day (okay, it’s already a bit far-fetched), 50 world class vessels sailing in all their beauty into the North Harbour, as many as 2,000 crew members from across the world floating into the Northeast, while 400,000 people stand watching, cheering, clapping.
For context, that’s nearly 20 Pittodrie’s worth of people, 26 P&J Live’s, more than 300 Music Hall’s. In short, a lot of people, with a lot of money to spend in the region.
That’s the challenge awaiting Emma Wadee, just a year out from the Tall Ships Races coming to Aberdeen for the first time since 1997.
Emma, as Project Manager of the event, is tasked with ensuring no troubled waters lie ahead, and it’s smooth sailing for the event.
Early suggestions are that it could attract tens of millions of pounds to the region when the ships arrive on July 19, 2025.
“It’s astronomical what the impacts can be,” she said.
“It was a huge success in the 90s. We want to build on that, we want to ensure we do something of the same scale that people talk about in the future with fond memories.”
Fresh off the back of her role as Project Manager for the UCI Cycling World Championships in Glasgow and across Scotland last year, Emma is no stranger to organising large-scale events.
“The logistics, the operations behind that were intense and difficult but everybody rallied behind it to make it happen,” she said.
“I think everybody had huge benefits from pooling together, that synergy that was created is something that Scotland is very, very successful at.
“I can see that already in Aberdeen, the number of people that are already involved in bringing Tall Ships next year, right the way through from the partnership with Aberdeen City Council, Port of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Inspired that actually were successful in winning the bid to bring Tall Ships back because we know how important it is to Aberdeen, to the North-east, to bring tall ships back.”
“My very first visit that I had to Aberdeen, I actually went to the Fittie Bar in the evening after spending the day with some of my colleagues in the Tall Ships team and the number of people that talked to me about their memories of the 90s was unbelievable.
“That has carried through in the months that I’ve been on the event working here.
“It’s a huge, huge privilege to be in this role because this event is so unique with opportunities that come with it.
“I’ve never worked on an event where there is such an opportunity to involve everybody from the local businesses, the community volunteers, young people, it’s a huge vehicle for everybody to get involved in something so exciting for the whole of the North-east.”
The races were also in Aberdeen in 1991, just six years before they docked again in the city.
This isn’t just the city, it’s right across the whole of the North-east.
By the time next year rolls around, it’ll have been 28 years since the area welcomed the ships.
“It’s far too long since they were here the last time and it’s a real opportunity for the whole of the North-east to work together to celebrate the Tall Ships event, to maximise opportunities for an event of this scale.”
Enthusing the community before the ships hit the shores is a key task facing Emma.
“This isn’t just the city, it’s right across the whole of the North-east,” she said.
“The tall ships it really is a unique event where everybody can get involved.
“There’s a huge community aspect to it and a huge feeling of celebration, particularly for Aberdeen. The maritime heritage, the links in with actual sailing vessels and the history of what Aberdeen has actually been a leader in in the past, and it looks like good to be a leader in the future.”
She continued: “What we want to do as the Tall Ships team is open the door, help with ideas, help with support in building the different aspects of the event, but really, it’s an open door.
“We want people to be creative, we want people to approach us with ideas and then we can signpost from there.”
With the event a year away, Emma admitted it’s feeling “a bit more real now”.
Plans are in place for marquees, trader stands, food and drink stands, crafters, exhibitions and much more to be present at the races.
“The only thing that will be really operational other than the 50 majestic Tall Ships in the North Harbor will be North Link ferry.
“There’ll be stages, there’ll be space for artists, there will be lots of different things going on at the harbour and a main stage on the quayside too.”
But it’s not only the harbour that’ll be consumed by Tall Ships fever.
“One of the most exciting things is, because we don’t have too much space on the quayside for activations, we’re going to have a big welcome entrance coming down Marischal Street at the end of Union Street.
“We’re going to use an area in the Castlegate for a discovery zone, which will be a youth-centric area, lots of STEM activities to come and try.
“What that actually will do is connect the event right into the city centre. We’re going to be connected into where all the hotels are, the restaurants, the bars, the shops, and connect it all together.
“It will really help support us to be bolstered with all these different activities and activations through the city.
“We can have shop windows decorated with Tall Ships, memorabilia, and really showcase how the whole entire of Union Street, as an example, is connected right into the entrance of the events.”
The Tall Ships team will also be going into schools from as early as August as they drum up excitement for people of all ages.
The four days of the event will no doubt be the biggest, and while Emma and her team are ramping up preparations hundreds of days in advance, they’re acutely aware of the huge opportunity awaiting Aberdeen should all go to plan.
“It isn’t just the four days of the event,” Emma said.
“We’re bringing visitors from our area, across Aberdeenshire, we’re bringing them from all over Scotland, hopefully national, hopefully international. We want them to do more than just spend four days on the quayside looking at the ships.
“How do we really showcase Aberdeen? How do we get people to come back? I think that’s a big ambition of what the Tall Ships event can do.”
The North Harbour and some fortunate onlookers got a sneak peek of the Tall Ships last year when three arrived in Aberdeen.
Emma hopes 50 or more will be docking next year, and early indications are looking positive.
“The captains of the ships are particularly excited about coming to Aberdeen,” she said.
“They remember the Port of Aberdeen is a commercial place they’ve visited before. It’s world renowned as a great port to visit in terms of facilities for ships.”
“[The ships] are really unique and they are crewed differently as well.
“The international crews are the most vibrant, diverse, amazingly colourful, wonderfully musically interesting, crews that are going to be visiting us.
“We’re going to have between 1,500 and 2,000 international crew members staying with us for four days.
“We want to give an amazing Scottish welcome to the crews that are visiting and to the visitors that make the effort to come to Aberdeen to spend time with us.”
Emma Wadee, Project Manager, Tall Ships Aberdeen
People recovering from strokes could soon have their recovery boosted by a new ‘soft robotic arm’ being developed at the University of Aberdeen.
James Greig, a final year PhD researcher, designed and built the device which could allow patients to carry out invaluable physiotherapy at home in addition to existing assisted physio sessions.
The lightweight, affordable equipment uses flexible, inflatable material to support the arm as it makes basic repetitive movements – essential for rehabilitation following a stroke.
James said: “What we’re trying to address is a product to address the lack of availability to physiotherapy for stroke patients who have maybe suffered some loss of mobility in the arm.
“I wanted to make a lightweight device that can be made readily available in the community. So it’s cheap, easy to wear and doesn’t need specialist assistance to use. It means people can have more physiotherapy so they can do some work at home as well as the work that they’ve been doing with the physiotherapist.”
In an exciting development at Albyn School, preschool children, aged three to five years old, had the opportunity to participate in hands-on science experiments in the school’s well-equipped science labs.
Traditionally reserved for older lower school and upper school pupils, the labs opened their doors to the school’s Nursery children under the guidance of Albyn School’s Head of Chemistry, Catherine Imlah.
This initiative aims to inspire early interest in STEM subjects by allowing the youngest members of the school community to explore basic concepts in physics and chemistry through age-appropriate experiments.
Full fibre broadband is heading to more North-east locations, as part of a huge broadband upgrade by Openreach.
People living in the Bieldside, Bucksburn and Dyce areas of Aberdeen, and Insch in Aberdeenshire, are next in line for full fibre.
They join 1.2 million homes and businesses across Scotland who already have access to the UK’s most reliable broadband technology, thanks to Openreach’s work.
Pressure for parking space has led an Aberdeen cancer centre to install new measures to help their visitors access the facility.
Maggie’s Centre in Aberdeen has put parking bollards in their dedicated spaces on the Foresterhill Health Campus to let visitors with reduced mobility park outside the centre.
Centre Head Vera Schroeter said: “At Maggie’s, we aim to help the people who come to us for support feel better, and these changes should make it easier for people dealing with cancer to get the best possible support.”
Eastern Airways, the UK’s regional airline, has commenced Aberdeen services from Teesside Airport to re-establish what is currently the only North-east England to Scotland flights.
Initially the service will operate daily weekdays and Sunday with an increase to twice daily from September 9, offering what will then be peak morning and evening services to ensure connectivity to the UK’s North-east Scotland energy hub.
Recently re-elected Mayor of Tees Valley Ben Houchen said: “We’re at the forefront of new offshore industries coming to Teesside – and we’ve had a longstanding and deeply skilled workforce grafting in the North Sea and around the world for decades now.
“It is absolutely vital offshore workers keep their link to Aberdeen to get to and from work, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring this back to our departure boards again with Eastern Airways.”
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Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
Without sounding extremely corny my current Manager has been a massive influence in my career. Having worked on and off with her for over 12 years, she has guided me as far as I wanted to go in operations in hospitality before recognising my transferrable skills for sales. She has always kept me focused and driven.
What’s the most effective piece of training or personal development you have undertaken?
Theres a couple of training that I have found essential throughout my career – resilience and personality types training. Resilience training is a skill that I had to learn very early in my career working in a hotel in Belfast. Learning a new culture and being my first management role I had to ensure I was capable to cope with all situations that were thrown at me. For personality type training I have always found this very interesting and understanding my own personality type to ensure I am aware of how I behave and my weaknesses that I need to work on, and also it has helped me to understand client and staff behaviours. Understanding to play to the strengths of different personality types has been a game changer for my current role.
What’s the biggest lesson you have learned in business?
People buy from people, which is why I love getting out networking and catching up with people and meeting new contacts to establish great relationships.
What’s been your proudest career achievement to date?
My proudest moment would be in my current role. It is the most accountability I have had in my career so far, and my management company continue to give me further responsibility and push me out of my comfort zone. I have recently started to support another hotel in another city which is a great challenge and opportunity for me to learn a new hotel brand and new markets. Also, what makes me proud is balancing my current busy work schedule and travel, with a young family and a husband that works anti-social hours.
What’s the best thing about doing business in the Northeast of Scotland?
The people I have encountered while working in Aberdeen are so passionate about the North-east and ensure we are doing everything we can to keep it on the map. I find the networking opportunities available are great and I am continually finding new events to attend to expand my network. I love how open people in the North-east can be, as I have worked in other cities and people are not always as welcoming.
What was your first job?
Waitressing in my local restaurant when I was 14.
Who or what inspires you most?
My mum, as she has always been hardworking and taught how important it is still to have a career as well as having family.
What word or phrase in businessspeak exasperates you?
Get all your ducks in a row.
How do you relax?
Watching foreign subtitled crime thrillers – you have to concentrate on only that.
If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?
To find a cure for dementia.
Hundreds of Dons fans descended on Pittodrie to enjoy a picnic on the Pittodrie pitch for the first time ever.
Aberdeen FC’s partner charity, AFCCT, opened the doors to the stadium giving supporters the chance to share a unique experience with family and friends on the hallowed turf.
Making the most of the sunshine, families were given the chance to meet the AFC Women’s players, former Dons stars and mascots, enjoy live music and see behind the scenes at Pittodrie with mini stadium tours.
Liz Bowie, Chief Executive of AFCCT, said: “It was fantastic to see so many families come together to help us celebrate the Trust in our 10th anniversary year.
“There was a real family feeling throughout the day helping to amplify all that the Trust stands for in terms of being inclusive of our local community, creating a real sense of participation and access.”
Befriend a Child’s Enchanted Forest Ball raised £40,914 for local children the charity supports across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Guests were immersed in a world of storytelling and magic with fabulous performances from Mark Cameron Dance/Corporate and hosted by the incredibly talented performer Kevin Littlejohn from Right Here Productions.
The evening was hosted at The Chester Hotel and supported by Platinum sponsor WM Donald, Print Sponsor Intro Creative Group and Sweetie Sponsor Enquest.
Sarah Misra, CEO at Befriend a Child said: “We are delighted about the sum raised on Friday and we couldn’t have done it without our fantastic sponsors, guests and supporters who all contributed to making the evening incredible. Fundraising events such as The Enchanted Forest Ball are essential to ensuring we are able to provide much needed support to children living in challenging life circumstances across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.”
Befriend a Child supports children and young people living in difficult life circumstances across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire through 1:1 and group befriending and mentoring programmes and projects. Over the years Befriend a Child’s provision of programmes and projects has grown and today the charity supports approximately 250 children annually.
Denholm Environmental Limited completed its first scope of work in Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, which represents a significant stride forward in its international growth plans.
It sparked the creation of five project-long jobs with a total of 12 company personnel carrying out high-risk confined space entry to clean a significant quantity and various types of tanks across five drill rigs/ships.
The team worked with various specialist subcontractors regarding breathing apparatus management throughout the project, which reached a successful conclusion. It is now hoped that the work will stimulate further projects in the region, bringing the company’s unrivalled experience and expertise to an ever-growing customer base at home and overseas.
The news comes just a few weeks after Denholm Environmental Limited announced £2million investment in improving and upgrading equipment and fleet across its UK bases in Inverurie, Invergordon, Grangemouth and Carlisle.
Local charity Instant Neighbour, which supports people on low incomes to set up home, celebrates a significant milestone this year, marking 40 years of unwavering support for the local community.
To recognise this milestone year, the charity is on a mission to raise £40,000 for 40 years of service. Sophy Green, CEO of Instant Neighbour said: “Our success has been built on the amazing support from the public, and we are counting on that same spirit of generosity to help us reach our £40,000 goal.
“Whether through participating in fundraising activities, attending our fundraising dinner, or purchasing sponsorship packages, every contribution makes a significant difference. Together, we can continue to support those who need it most.”
NHS Grampian has worked with the Teenage Cancer Trust to design a dedicated space for young patients in a new centre.
The organisations spoke to patients aged 16-25 to create a lounge at The ANCHOR Centre, which is currently being built on the Foresterhill Health Campus, in Aberdeen.
All of the features in the lounge have been thoughtfully designed in consultation with members of the local Teenage Cancer Trust group - which is funding the furniture, gaming equipment, wall art and activities supplies for the lounge.
Louise Budge, service and commissioning lead for The ANCHOR Centre, said: “From the beginning of the project we were aware of how important a dedicated space for our younger cancer and blood disorder patients is - to allow them to interact with their peers, to listen to music or play a video game or just to have a quiet space.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside the Teenage Cancer Trust to make this a calm and welcoming space for our younger patients.”
The lounge is on the ground floor of The ANCHOR Centre and charity staff recently visited the site to see the space.
Aberdein Considine is now offering family law solicitor appointments from its branches in Peterhead and Inverurie, as well as from its office in Aberdeen.
Isabelle Douglas, a Partner in the family law team, is available for consultations in the Peterhead branch, while Tom Main, an Associate and Notary Public, meets with clients in the Inverurie branch.
The Firm’s Family Law Team are experts in this field, and this provides the people in these towns and surrounding areas with the opportunity to meet with someone locally to discuss family law issues.
Tom said: “Aberdein Considine is built on key values; one of which is assisting our clients on a local and personal level. This service will allow Aberdein Considine to expand on our family law services to assist people with some of the most important aspects of their lives, right here in their local branches.”
Aberdein Considine offers a full range of legal services to individuals and businesses, with services including family law, employment law, personal insolvency, divorce and separation, legal disputes, executory administration and corporate and business advisory services.
Anna Ferrier, Owner & Lead Wine Educator, Aberdeen Local Wine School
When was your business established?
Aberdeen Local Wine School was launched in September 2022.
What does your business do?
Aberdeen Local Wine School is a local, independently-owned wine education and events company
Craig Messer, General Manager, North East Telecommunications Ltd
What does your business do?
Telecommunications equipment supply and rental, along with servicing and repair of equipment. Mostly, but not exclusively, radios. We have a competent offshore team as well.
based in Aberdeen. We host regular wine tastings, courses, and food and wine experiences for people who enjoy wine and want to learn more. We are also an approved programme provider for WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) courses which are globally recognised qualifications for industry professionals.
What sort of companies do you do business with?
I work with different venues in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, mainly in the hospitality industry. I either rent out facilities to host my events or partner up with cafés/ restaurants to showcase their food offering. I also work closely with different wine and cheese suppliers.
What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?
Reaching people - I’m still relatively new and there are many people who don’t know yet who I am and what I’m doing.
What sort of companies do you do business with?
We actually cover most verticals from farms to events to offshore. The majority of work would be in the energy sector.
What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?
The rapid growth of the company in the last few years especially has been testing, but an enjoyable challenge the team have embraced.
What is the biggest opportunity?
Our current in-house drive is our Hazardous Area Crane Radio system, this is relatively new to market and getting great traction. We also have tower crane versions as well.
And the biggest opportunity?
Attracting new customers and also attracting new potential venues and partnerships with other businesses throughout Scotland. There is a big opportunity for partnerships with hotels and restaurants and training support for their staff. WSET training is industry standard for hospitality staff throughout the world and I can help to support and roll this out in the North-east.
What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?
Being able to share my love of wine with other people - it brings me a lot of joy to meet new people and for them to discover something new to enjoy. I’m very proud of my journey so far and excited to see what the future holds.
What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?
As well as a busy company that provides great service for our clients, we also do what we can to aid local charities and events, which can be very rewarding in itself.
What has been most valuable to you as members of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce?
We value the chance to gain insight into the current business developments in the region and develop further knowledge to not only help the company but the region too.
Murray Allan, Company Secretary,
Sanmac
When was your business established?
1981 and it came under our family ownership in 1999.
What does your business do?
We’re an industrial supplier. It’s a vague description but there’s a near endless range of products that
Rami Elmegirab, Sales Manager, Spiral Services Ltd
When was your business established?
Spiral Services was established in 2019. Although we are an SME, we have a vast depth of knowledge with over 60 years combined experience. From our CEO Neil Thomson who is an accomplished Executive
we’ve been asked to quote for and supply.
What sort of companies do you do business with?
Our customer base goes from multi-million-pound turnover oil companies to one-man operations and the general public.
What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?
There’s lots of movement with people and companies opening, closing and diversifying with the energy transition. Making sure we’ve gotten word out to the companies that we can help is one of the biggest challenges.
And the biggest opportunity? I’d say that it’s very similar to the challenges. Being able to aid any new ventures with our experience and contacts is a dual benefit and we all enjoy helping people. It’s one
of the most rewarding things in the job.
What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?
Helping people by giving a good level of service, treating people well and sharing knowledge where we can.
What has been most valuable to you as members of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce?
Our Relationship Manager Suzanne. She’s helped immensely with lighting a spark under us all to get our name out there. So, if you eventually get fed up hearing from us, you’ll know who to blame!
Team Leader spanning project management, fabrication, engineering and R&D, to our Operations Manager Calvin Cox who has managed a range of projects in a variety of industries. To myself with 15+ years in commercial roles we are focused on delivering high standards to our clients
What does your business do?
We specialise in bulk material handling solutions and processing equipment including industrial conveying along with general fabrication, manufacturing, and engineering support services. We also supply engineered pressure test barriers (blast curtains). Our cross-industry approach allows us to provide cost-effective solutions, tailored to suit the needs of our client.
What sort of companies do you do business with?
A variety of companies within energy, agriculture, food and drink and environmental. Each sector has its own challenges and requirements, however with the various levels of experience in differing industries we have the understanding and experience to adapt to the needs of our clients and what their drivers are.
What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?
Our biggest challenge is enhancing our visibility and our complete service offering to both existing and new clients. With our operational experience we can provide solutions to our clients challenges and eliminate the need to source from a variety of suppliers.
On June 1, International School Aberdeen (ISA) recognised the achievements of their Grade 12 students at a graduation ceremony in the school’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Half of the class are UK citizens, half are from one of ten different countries from five continents.
Their families may have come from across the area and around the world, but the great majority of this diverse class are choosing to stay in Scotland for the next step in their education. Students have offers to study engineering, business, history, politics, film, physiotherapy, computer science, linguistics, English, biological sciences, chemistry, psychology and criminology in everywhere from the traditional universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee to more modern ones such as Napier and Robert Gordon University (RGU).
The ISA class of 2024 represents two emerging phenomena - locals choosing an international education, and expatriates choosing to stay in Scotland, post-secondary. The Scottish government estimates that around a quarter of students at Scottish universities are from abroad.
The school itself remains unique in North-east Scotland but it is part of a growing trend worldwide. According to ISC Research,there are currently 6.5 million students studying in 13,192 international schools - a growth of 53% in ten years. Incredibly 80% of these students are from the schools’ host countries.
ISA’s graduating class is not rare. So what is the attraction of an international education both for the students themselves and the universities they graduate into?
There is no single definition of an international school. They can be owned and run by governments, education groups, charities or private individuals. The most popular language of instruction is English, but many other languages are used as well. They don’t follow national curriculums, but there is no single international curriculum either. Although host country governments inspect these ‘visiting’ schools, there is no single worldwide organisation that validates them.
However, international schools have developed distinct identities in response to common challenges. The most obvious being both what and how to teach students who both come from many different nations and may go back to them. National systems present history from a single perspective and there is an agreed canon for literature. International students have to consider other points of view.
“IB gives you a taste of everything … Continue to push yourself through…. You will surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”
This is probably why the International Baccalaureate (IB) is becoming the most popular of international curriculums. It offers rigour in academic concepts and skills, but gives students choice around content; built into its courses is a requirement to consider multiple perspectives - something that recent IB graduate, Abril, considered her “greatest takeaway from the IB; it opened my eyes and now I have no limits”
Research from US and UK admission officers showed a similar enthusiasm from universities. They gave a 71% rating for open-mindedness among IB graduates (compared to 26% for Scottish Highers and 15% for A levels). It is this open-mindedness that allows ISA graduates to meet challenges of university life with flexibility of thought.
Anna-Sophia, 2004 Graduate
The IB also allows students to delve into their own interests, carrying out their own research projects. Showing this kind of initiative is not easy, but something Alejo is clear about when talking to current Diploma students “The effort is worth it! … everything you learn will be very useful for starting university: you will have already acquired a lot of tools for studying, researching and carrying out practical work.”
UK universities agree. They rated IB students at 87% IB (compared to 47% for Scottish Highers and 37% for A levels), and 76% for self management (compared to 30% for Scottish Highers, 26% for A levels).
At ISA, the IB Diploma is the final two years of a four year high school diploma which keeps students’ options open. They continue to study English, mathematics, humanities, science and a foreign language until
they are 18 with the option of an arts or design subject or an additional humanities or science subject. It also means they start their university studies with a far greater breadth than UK peers.
For all their diversity, ISA’s class of 2024 had one point of agreement - the IB Diploma was a challenge! But students with a real range of ability and interests will leave with a first rate qualification. Anna-Sophia, who graduated in 2004 leaves with this advice, “IB gives you a taste of everything … Continue to push yourself through…. You will surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”
Aberdeen University told ISA: “I think it’s fair to say that our admissions team and our academics are big fans of the IB and view it favourably. It provides a very good preparation for university study.”
Leo Casabianca receiving his high school diploma from principal, Stuart MacAlpine. Leo plans to study mechanical engineering at the University of Glasgow.
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Danielle Flecher-Horn, founder of Aberdeen-based children’s charity AberNecessities, has received the distinguished Points of Light award, recognising her extraordinary dedication and impactful contribution to supporting disadvantaged families in the region.
The Points of Light award, established by the UK Prime Minister’s office, celebrates outstanding individuals who are making a significant difference in their communities through volunteer and charitable efforts.
Danielle founded AberNecessities in 2019 with the vision of providing basic essentials to families experiencing extreme financial hardship, ensuring that no child goes without the basic necessities they need for the best start in life.
Danielle Flecher-Horn said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award and to be recognised alongside so many incredible individuals who are making a difference. AberNecessities started as a dream to help children and families in our community, and it has grown beyond anything I could have imagined thanks to the unwavering support of our staff, volunteers and donors.”
Genny Hire Ltd are thrilled to unveil their brand-new van signage that gives their fleet a fresh look.
This is more than just a facelift; it’s a symbol of Genny Hire’s commitment to delivering top-notch power solutions across all industries.
Their new design reflects their continued dedication to innovation, reliability, and excellent service. Whether on the roads of Aberdeenshire or beyond, know that they are ready to provide the perfect power solution.
C-SAM, a leading provider of asset and rental management solutions, announced its expansion into the hardware market.
The company now supplies a wide range of hardware products, including touch screens, printers, handheld scanners, and label printers. This strategic move aims to provide clients with a complete suite of tools to enhance operational efficiency and streamline workflows.
Known for its robust software solutions in asset and rental management, C-SAM’s new hardware offerings are designed to complement its existing services, providing customers with an integrated approach to managing their operations. By offering both software and hardware, C-SAM positions itself as a comprehensive solutions provider, capable of meeting the diverse needs of its clients.
“We are excited to expand our product range to include hardware solutions,” said David Paterson, Managing Director of C-SAM. “Our goal has always been to help our clients achieve operational excellence. With the addition of touch screens, printers, handheld scanners, and label printers, we can now offer an even more complete package to support their business needs.”
The decision to broaden its product portfolio comes in response to increasing demand from customers for a more unified solution that covers both software and hardware needs. By sourcing high-quality hardware, C-SAM ensures that its customers have access to reliable and efficient tools that work seamlessly with its software systems.
The firm won the Best Private Client Tax Practice award at the coveted UK-wide Tolley’s Taxation Awards 2024, which recognises excellence within the tax profession.
Led by Partner and Head of Private Client Tax Alexandra Docherty, the practice was praised by judges at the event, held at the Hilton London Metropole on Thursday night, for how it put clients “at the heart” of all its work.
The award win comes as the team enjoys an impressive year, growing to a headcount of 61, making it one of the largest private client tax practices in the UK.
Laura Sutherland has returned to Annie Kenyon Architects studio as an Architectural Assistant after completing her master’s degree in architecture.
Knight Engineering Solutions Ltd has appointed Evan Philip into the newly created role of Design Draftsperson to enhance the company’s design capabilities.
Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has hired forensic accounting specialist David Lister as Partner to bolster its professional services capabilities in investigations and fraud risk management.
Robert Gordon’s College has appointed Kenny Gunnyeon to the role of Chief Operating Officer, bringing vast experience from Aberdeenshire Council and sports industry.
Gilson Gray Financial Management (GGFM), the financial planning arm of full-service legal firm Gilson Gray, has promoted Emma Bradbury to Chief Operating Officer to drive the next chapter of GGFM’s growth.
The UK’s fastest growing premium ice-cream brand has strengthened its sales team with the addition of Will Dixon as Head of Sales and Kirsten Blockley and Iain Thomas as National Account Managers.
North-east social inclusion charity, Aberdeen Cyrenians has appointed Donna Hutchison as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following two years as the Head of Corporate and Business Services.
AAB, a leading professional services company across the UK and Ireland, has announced the promotion of Lyn Calder, John Beevers and Neil Robb to the group’s senior leadership team, to accelerate its ambitious growth plans.
Apollo has announced the promotion of Marissa Stephen to the position of Business Development Director and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role.
Viper Innovations has welcomed Greg Maclachlan into the subsea sales team and Sales Manager, reflecting the company’s significant growth following their success in the global subsea industry.
NCIMB has announced the appointment of Dr Brandon Childers to the post of Senior Scientist at their laboratories in Aberdeen.
Liam Tough has been appointed the new Business Development Manager for Europe at Airpac Rentals. He brings a wealth of experience from the rental industry to his new position.
Aberdeen-based Escone Solutions has welcomed Kimberley Grant and Grace Barnes to its growing team to further develop expansion and growth for the business applications support firm.
Nicola Taylor
Step Change in Safety has appointed Nicola Taylor to the newly created role of Business Engagement Manager to support its members. Nicola joins the team with extensive experience in the energy industry.
Ronald Leitch has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer of AGS Airports Ltd, which owns and operates Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports. Ronald brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in the aviation industry having worked in several senior leadership positions at both Aberdeen and Glasgow Airports.
ANM Group has strengthened its Caithness Livestock Team with the promotion of three members of staff. Scott Chapman has been appointed Store Cattle Auctioneer, Andrew Gunn transitioned to a Livestock Canvassing role and Kirsty Strachan joins the Group as Office Manager.
P&J Live has strengthened its corporate and association sales team with four new appointments. Michelle Allan, Kainah McAdams, Arryann Duncan and Sarah Oliphant all bring a variety of industry experience to the venue as it continues its growth in the C&E market.
Annie Kenyon Architects (ak|a) has announced the promotion of Adam Wagg to the position of Senior Associate. Adam’s journey with the practice began in 2018 as a Senior Architect, where his talent, expertise and commitment quickly became evident through his involvement in numerous diverse architectural projects.
AM Sci Tech, a subsidiary of Hurstwood Holdings, has expanded its lettings and management team at Aberdeen Energy and Innovation Parks, with the appointment of Jenn Foster as Commercial Lettings Manager.
NHS Grampian welcomed midwife Debbie McWilliam into a new joint role at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin, which will see her having time dedicated to digital projects as well as working on the ward.
Solab IT Services Group has strengthened its tech team with the appointment of Ewelina Smola and Kylle Aupiais as Systems Engineers and Stuart Will as IT Help Desk Engineer.
University of Aberdeen has appointed Professor Siladitya Bhattacharya to the role of Vice-Principal (Global Engagement) at the University. Professor Bhattacharya has been Head of the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition since 2019.
Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East has appointed Anna Blair, Michelle Robb and Lisa Turner as Employer School Coordinators. They will work closely with local organisations to encourage them to support and recruit young people.
Johnston Carmichael has strengthened its leadership team with five senior promotions. Gillian McColgan, Graeme Bain, Sally Hewish, Ryan Milne and Keith Hamilton have been promoted to various senior positions within the accountancy and business advisory firm.
Blackadders LLP has promoted Claire Ogston to Partner and Head of the firm’s Residential Property Unit. Claire joined the firm’s Aberdeen team earlier this year after having had more than 17 years’ experience in residential property.
Aberdein Considine has appointed Laurie Anderson to the role of Senior Associate. With more than 15 years’ experience in the field, he is accredited as a Specialist in Employment Law by the Law Society of Scotland.
Creative marketing agency
Mearns & Gill has appointed David Benjamin to the role of Business Development Manager as they expand the agency into the central belt.
STATS Group (STATS) has appointed Angus Bowie to the new position of Chief Technology Officer. As a highly accomplished design engineer, Angus has over two decades of experience at STATS.
AquaTerra has welcomed Derek Porter and Mehnaj Noor to the roles of Project Design Engineer and Business Administrator. Both bring a range of experience and diverse skills to their new roles.
4MS Network Solutions has appointed Stuart Little to the role of Business Services Consultant. With over 30 years of experience within the technology sector, Stuart brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the dynamic team.
Park Inn by Radisson Aberdeen has appointed Debbie Mair as the new Director of Sales. With a career spanning over 15 years in the hospitality industry, Debbie brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
Rob McGregor, Callum Sutherland and Fraser Cameron have been promoted to various leadership positions at the full-service legal firm as it continues to grow and broaden its service across Scotland.
Savills has announced the return of Jamie Wedderspoon as a Director and Cara Thomson as Associate Director to their Aberdeen rural team. Both bring hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge to their roles.
ITWORX UK has appointed Nikolai Millington, Ian Smith and Luke Grimbley to further strengthen its account management, service desk and solutions team.
Glacier Energy has welcomed Paul Johnson to the team as the new Business Unit Director of Glacier Energy’s Inspection Services Division. Paul brings over 30 years of diverse experience to the role.
Commercial Property Partner at Raeburn Christie Clark & Wallace LLP, Bruce Robertson has announced his retirement after 45 years at the firm. Since joining in 1978, he has acted for many high profile clients in the oil and gas field in the Northeast and beyond.
