Tom Gibson

GM, Arthouse Glasgow

• What was your favourite subject at school?

History, although I was terrible at remembering dates. I loved how the stories impacted the world we live in and understanding how one event led to another. The dates… not so much.

• What was your first job?

At the age of 15 I was selling trainers at Sports Connection in Aberdeen. It taught me the essentials of customer service, teamwork and how to thrive in a busy environment. I also became a bit of a ninja at reorganising the stockroom after a weekend and even helped open some new stores.

• Which is your favourite restaurant /hotel?

Ox and Finch is probably my favourite restaurant. Every visit has been so memorable. I’m also a big admirer of what Barry and the team have created at Cromlix. I love places that feel authentic, full of personality and genuinely connected to where they are.

• How do you inspire your team

I try to understand what makes each person tick and build from there. Give people ownership, support them when they need it and roll my sleeves up when things get tough. I also think work should be enjoyable. Hospitality is demanding enough without taking ourselves too seriously, so a laugh goes a long way.

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

Alistair Kinchin. He challenged me to think differently, trust my instincts and helped shape the kind of leader I wanted to become. I’m hugely grateful for the time he invested in me, regardless of how frustrating he was at times.

• How do you manage your stress levels?

Stress is real thing for me, I focus on solving one problem at a time and keeping perspective. Sometimes you simply have to step away, clear your head and come back with fresh eyes. It’s about keeping the highballs high and the low balls low.  A gym session or a post-shift debrief in the pub with the team also works wonders.

• Instagram, Twitter or Facebook – and why?

Instagram. I love following new restaurant, bar and hotel openings, especially independent businesses. I’m always looking for inspiration, supporting local operators and inevitably sending ideas to my own team.

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

Probably something involving project management, design or placemaking. I’ve always loved change-led projects, building teams and creating places people genuinely want to spend time in.

• What did you do on your last days off?

Time off is a rarity during a hotel opening, but I still wake up buzzing when I get one.

Last Sunday I wanted to make the most of it after barely seeing the girls for three weeks. We went bowling, tried a new restaurant in town, then came home to enjoy the sunshine with a good bottle of wine. It was exactly what I needed.

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

My kitchen is my happy place. Cooking is how I unwind and how I show people I care. I love discovering new restaurants and bars, supporting local businesses, live music and spending time with family and friends. I’ve also learned to value time on my own. Sometimes slowing down is exactly what you need to move forward.