Let's say hello to...
The Power of Education
Hello! I’m Ian, Head of Student Engagement. I was born and brought up in Stirling, but Edinburgh has become somewhere I feel completely at home. I joined Heriot-Watt after finishing my PhD in Applied Social Research, which was quite a journey because I became a dad in the middle of it. Juggling research and parenthood gave me huge respect for students, especially postgraduates, who balance life alongside their studies.
I left school at 16 to work in a call centre, then applied to my local university at 19 and was accepted through contextual admissions, as my school was a LEAP school. I know what it feels like to navigate education without a roadmap. I was also a commuter student, which brought its own challenges. Education changed my life, and it’s why working in this sector has always been the common thread in my career.
Although I’ve only been at HWUnion for about a month, I previously worked in Learning and Teaching at the University from 2015 to 2020, so being back feels energising. My role focuses on working with a vibrant team across the Union, the University and the sector to improve student life. I love the blend of strategic thinking and hands-on work. One day I’m putting up posters, the next I’m planning long-term projects, and in between there are lots of “have you got a minute?” conversations. I keep my door open because I’m an extrovert and get energy from people, listening, collaborating, and helping others develop. Our team is creative and student focused, and it’s a privilege working alongside them.
What motivates me most is creating sustainable change. I think of growth as gradual, like the avocado seed I recently started growing. It didn’t do much for three months, then began to root when I started here. I’ve since learned it might take over a decade to flourish. That’s how I see supporting people: nurturing them, celebrating progress, which is why empowering is the Union value that resonates the most with me.
Outside work, family is everything. I’m on a wellness journey and recently took up running after completing the Kiltwalk with my daughter. I love good coffee, supporting nature in our garden, and for a fun fact…I once appeared on BBC Saturday Mashup, laughing loudly when my daughter got slimed after I beat her in a quiz. There are photos to prove it too.
Ways to get in touch with me...