Fraser McIlwraith

The Ben President | Director at HOSPO Talent, Dark Art Drinks & Liquid Oats

• What was your favourite subject at school?

I always loved Biology, mostly because I had a great teacher caller Dr Shirley who taught us that we need to understand our bodies before being unleashed into the world. He made it fascinating and made sure that we understood that we are physically capable of more than we think. He said that given the correct fuel and some grit and determination, you can accomplish anything.

• What was your first job?

My first job was a paperboy aged 14, it was a 5am start and got me used to early rising from a young age.

• Which is your favourite restaurant /hotel?

The Gannet, always great food, great service and great value for money.

• How do you inspire your team

I’ve always been a lead from the front kind of guy, I get stuck in with the difficult / unpopular jobs and make sure everyone knows it’s a team effort. I couldn’t have achieved anything close to what we have today without the people around me.

• Which person in hospitality have you most admired / inspired you?

Kenny Blair was my mentor for 6 years at Buzzworks and he really caught my attention and showed me what’s possible with continued self-development. I’ve been lucky to have several mentors throughout my career and always spend time with others to give something back.

• How do you manage your stress levels?

I go to Crossfit 4/5 times a week, cycle into work when it’s not raining and go out for an occasional dance in any of Glasgow’s great nightclubs.

• Instagram, Twitter or Facebook – and why?

I’m pretty bad at Socials, I tend to watch and not put anything of myself out there. If anyone wants to see what I get up to, they just need to follow my wife! @drlarenevans on Insta. I’m on Facebook most often, but more for work and the Glasgow Bartenders Pages.

• If you had not gone into hospitality, where do you
  think you would be now?

I have a degree in Physiology, so probably would be doing something sport related with that. I don’t think it would have been possible for me not to get into hospitality. Even school aged 15 I was hosting the best house parties in town. My parents were not happy!

• What did you do on your last days off?

I’m a bit of a house husband in my spare time, so cleaned the house, did the ironing, spent time with my family and cooked food. Cooking food at home is a great way to switch off.

• What do you do to relax, to support your wellbeing?

I like to go out for a walk, alone or with the kids. Mugdock park and the West Highland Way are both on my doorstep so I’m very familiar with these areas. The hypnotic cadence allows your mind to unwind and I tend to solve a lot of problems in this space.