What is your job title?
CEO
On a day-to-day basis, what do you actually do at work?
Euan’s Guide is the award-winning disabled access charity. We describe ourselves as small but mighty – which makes my role as CEO feel a lot like being Chief Juggler! No two days are ever the same. One moment I’m chatting to disabled people about their latest reviews, the next I’m working with our team on digital improvements, campaigns or partner projects. Everything we do is shaped by lived experience, and my job is to make sure we keep listening, stay focused, and help more disabled people explore with confidence.
Where did your career in tourism begin?
I’ve always loved helping people discover new places. My career started in leisure and hospitality, driven by a real interest in the connection between sport and tourism. I spent seven brilliant years living in the French Alps, where the buzz of the mountains and community life fuelled that passion. Since moving to Edinburgh, that focus has evolved. Euan’s Guide has given me a whole new perspective on how people experience places – and how access transforms travel, work, study and everyday life. Tourism isn’t just about holidays – it’s about making discovery possible for everyone.
What do you love about your job?
I love that we’re building something practical, positive and community-powered. Every day I hear from disabled people, families and carers about the places they love – and we know just one Euan’s Guide review can give someone the confidence to visit somewhere new. Euan’s vision drives everything we do, and it was a privilege to work alongside a friend from those early days around the (proverbial) kitchen table. This is just the beginning – we’ve got a brand new website on the way which will improve experiences and access to travel with confidence – and I can’t wait to lead the team on this next chapter. I also love getting out and about, especially here in Edinburgh. I shouldn’t be biased… but I love shouting about my home city, especially when I know help more people enjoy the city through our disabled access reviews.
In one sentence how would you sell Edinburgh to a potential visitor?
Cobbles, castles, cuisine, culture, crags and craic!
What’s your favourite place in Edinburgh and why?
I’m very lucky to live in Portobello – where city life meets the sea. It’s relaxed, friendly and full of character, with a great buzz. I love walking along the Prom, whether in summer sunshine or wild winter weather. There’s always someone to say hello to, and independent shops and food spots to explore. It feels like a well-kept secret… even though everyone says that! That said, Murrayfield on match day and the buzz of Edinburgh in festival season are both close contenders – I’m one of those people who have a spreadsheet to fit in as many shows as possible!
What advice would you give someone considering a career in tourism?
Be curious, be open, and prepare for the unexpected! Tourism is about people and places – and the more you listen, the better you’ll understand what makes both special. It’s hard work but hugely rewarding. Whatever you’re passionate about – sport, food, culture or the outdoors – there’s probably a tourism angle to it. Visit other places, learn from different destinations, and think inclusively from the start, it’s not a box to tick, it’s a mindset.
Most importantly of all, enjoy it! Helping people discover somewhere new is a real privilege.
We’re celebrating the past 25 years of tourism in Edinburgh, but looking forward what would you like to see happen in next 25 years for Edinburgh as tourist destination?
I’d love to see Edinburgh lead the way in accessible, inclusive tourism – where disabled people can explore the city with confidence, thanks to trusted information and a genuine sense of belonging. Euan’s Guide has shown that clear, honest, access information makes all the difference, and I’d love to see more venues and businesses proudly shouting about the experiences they offer. Euan believed in making the world a more accessible place for everyone – and it would be great to see Edinburgh recognised as an inclusive city to live, work, visit and study.
