From Blackpool Tower to historic Aberdeenshire
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FROM the razzle dazzle of Blackpool to the heritage of Aberdeenshire - that’s the latest move for Iain Hawkins.
The National Trust for Scotland has appointed Mr Hawkins as its new general manager to oversee Aberdeenshire’s most outstanding heritage.
He will be responsible for 12 iconic properties in Aberdeenshire and Angus, including Crathes Castle, Fyvie Castle and Haddo House.
The challenges of caring for well-loved visitor attractions are nothing new as he was previously with Merlin Entertainments Group, where he was central to the renaissance of Lancashire’s Blackpool resort.
The Dundonian headed up the highly successful refresh and refurbishment of eight attractions including Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, the Blackpool Dungeon, the Tower Ballroom, Blackpool Circus and the famous Blackpool Tower.
He said: "I had a fantastic experience in Lancashire and working with what was seen by many as a flagship for tourism in the UK was an absolute honour.
"As a proud Scot I am delighted to be coming home after 22 years and my new role with the National Trust for Scotland will be very different from my last one. Having said that, I believe I have many transferrable skills that will help support the core purpose of the charity, which is to conserve and promote our heritage.
"The properties I will be working with in the North East are true treasures and I am looking forward to welcoming Trust members and visitors from around the world and ensuring they enjoy memorable, first-rate experiences."
