Peter Walker FIH, MI

MD, Maryculter House, Aberdeenshire

• What was your favourite subject at school?

It is an even split between history and business studies. I loved both.

• What was your first job?

I was a morning paper boy delivering the Press & Journal in my hometown at the age of 14

• Which is your favourite restaurant /hotel?

The Marcliffe Hotel in Aberdeen – my wife and I  got married there so it holds a special place in my heart. I was also the deputy there for from 2005-2009

• How do you inspire your team

I lead by example and I am very hands on. I use my experience to nurture, advise and inspire both my junior and senior team members.

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

Growing up I took inspiration from the likes of Gordon Ramsay and other famous chefs in the industry

However, closer to home and in business, Stewart Spence and Andy Burgess had the biggest impacts on my career, for which I am really grateful.

• How do you manage your stress levels?

With great difficulty at times, especially the past two year, however I try to stay calm and getting plenty fresh air

• Instagram, Twitter or Facebook – and why?

Twitter – love twitter, allows you to engage with people and companies you wouldn’t normally be able to

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

When I was younger I use to want to be in the police force, I was always interested in traffic division.

• What did you do on your last days off?

I had a long walk and listened to a few podcasts and I also spent some time with my family trying to switch off from work.

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

I try and walk four or five miles in the morning before breakfast, so normally I am out and about at 0530/0600hrs, which is easier said than done, but it really helps me when I do it.  Not being on the floor as much as I used to means I have to try and eat as healthy as possible otherwise the pounds pile on.  I also find drinking plenty water which helps.  My son and I are season ticket holders with Aberdeen FC – which is a big part of me being able to switch off for a few hours and meet friends and colleagues at the games.