Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I grew up in Southport, Merseyside, studied Philosophy at Cambridge University, then fell into a career of finance and entrepreneurship. More recently I spent 12 years in the Netherlands building a hotel chain, before moving to Kingston on the Spey estuary with my wife and two younger sons. I have four sons and a grandson.
What skills do you bring?
As an entrepreneur, one of the things I have most enjoyed is being able to put my hand to the wheel in whatever role was needed at the time. Whether that is leading others or working at the coal face, or doing the day to day with a view to the overall strategy. Entrepreneurship demands a whole range of skills, and I very much hope that I can offer those skills to this role.
What part has nature played in your life, and what inspires you to get outdoors?
We moved to Scotland because of our love of the outdoors. In fact, I have my wife to thank for inspiring me to seek a more environmentally conscious life, as her father has been a pioneer in green architecture since the 1970’s. Nothing makes me feel more comfortable and at home than a day spent walking the hills.
Recently I have become very interested in the concept of Bioregions, and how they can provide a beacon for the future of our society.
What drew you to work with FHT?
I first met Jonathan as part of my role as trustee of Moray Supports Migrants and Refugees. We got chatting and he told me about the Findhorn Hinterland Trust and their work. He probably picked up on my interest because he told me that the Trust was looking for a membership secretary. Once he explained the role and how it benefitted the work of FHT, I was inspired to lend a hand.
You’re starting out in this role – what part of being with FHT do you most look forward to?
I’m most looking forward to meeting people. Meeting the FHT’s members, getting to know my new colleagues and fellow Trustees, and meeting new members. Anyone who appreciates the hinterland and getting out into nature.
What does the Membership Secretary role involve?
My role is primarily to ensure that our members’ details are kept up to date and that to keep the flow of communication going, so they are kept up-to-date with our news, as well as responding their requests promptly. Also to help to grow our membership and broaden the reach of the Findhorn Hinterland Trust, of course!
Do you have any plans for your role, anything you would like to achieve/introduce etc?
I’m still learning the nuances of the role, but I very much hope that I can bring some of the skills I have learnt through entrepreneurship to this role.
If you could dream anything for FHT, what would it be?
My dream for the FHT is for it to be an organisation that inspires and informs the future of society. Nothing less!
