What skills and experiences do you bring to the board?
I have a long experience of government and engagement with the political process. I was a civil servant in the Scottish Office up to 1999 and thereafter in the Scottish Government. My last big job was chief executive of Transport Scotland which was a great experience with large projects like the Queensferry Crossing and the Borders Railway.
If you could be any animal, which would it be?
Animal wise I would be a bear – probably watched too many cartoons in childhood – Yogi Bear – not too mention the great song from the original Jungle Book, “The Bare Necessities”. They mooch about in the woods looking for food then have a long sleep. Ideal.
What was your first job?
My first job during a summer a long time ago was as a porter in a hospital for those suffering mental health problems. The site of that old establishment is now the location of Paisley’s main hospital, The Royal Alexandra.
What is the most important lesson that life has taught you?
Take people as you find them, always treat people as you would expect to be treated yourself. And if you have issues with anybody always speak to them direct.
Do you have a message for Who Cares? Scotland’s Care Experienced members?
I have been very lucky in life and I am not going to pretend I understand those who have had different experiences. I just want to help and put something back if I can.
Do you have a message for Who Cares? Scotland’s staff?
I have been quite busy in my first year as a trustee but I haven’t been able to spend as much time as I would have liked getting to know the work of WC?S on the ground. If restrictions ease in 2021 I would like to rectify that.
