1. Can you describe your role as Chairman of Galbraith – what does a typical day look like? 

The role of Chairman is varied and rarely are two days the same. A day can include working with Martin our CEO on partnership matters, participating in partner or Finance & Management meetings or working with Partners and the heads of the executive functions.  I also provide Client Service training for those who are client facing.   It is the time spent working alongside capable and interesting people that makes the role so enjoyable.

2. What are the most rewarding parts of your role? 

One of the most rewarding parts of the role is seeing potential being nurtured and developed into capable and effective professionals. Another is recognising and dealing with challenges that conclude with a positive result. 

 3. What motivates you professionally? 

I seem to have inherited a gene that means that I am on continual “drive”. This might be helpful professionally, but I am told by my wife that it can be “unhelpful” at home! 

 4. How did your career path lead you to this point? 

I intended to become a farmer and studied Agriculture at Edinburgh.  I felt that the degree course did not cover business management so a post graduate year at Heriot Watt followed. The course was intended for those with non-accounting degrees to train as Chartered Accountants. I loved the course and changed my direction to become a CA in a professional practice helping run the family farms in the evenings and weekends. Before joining Galbraith I was a partner for 24 years and Chairman for 9 years at Johnston Carmichael. 

 5. What do you think sets Galbraith apart in the property and land sector? 

Quite simply it’s the people. You would expect the Firm to have good systems for example, but it is the capability and experience of the people that makes Galbraith what it is.

6. What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received? 

Recognise the ability in others and delegate to their strengths.

7. What’s your favourite place in the UK and why? 

As a keen hillwalker around and to the north of Ullapool is hard to beat. The hills and landscape are fantastic!  

8. How do you like to unwind after a busy week? 

A run or a hillwalk both help put the world into perspective, clarifies your thinking, provides a sense of achievement and builds up a thirst for a cold beer after!