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Meet the PhD: Hendrick Lattekamp

Welcome to “Meet the PhD”, a section dedicated to introducing to you our PhD candidates, where you will have the opportunity to get to know them and their research and find out how why they have chosen Edinburgh Napier University, and what excites them the most about their PhD journey.

Today, we have Hendrick Lattekamp, a PhD candidate who is currently in his 1^st year and decided to pursue a PhD after almost 20 years of working in the aviation industry. His PhD title is “Monitoring and evaluation indicators for just transition to net zero in tourism and events” with supervisors Dr Constantia Anastasiadou, Dr. Alexandra Witte, Dr Afiya Holder, and Dr Sarah Bortwick Saddler. Hendrick is also an active member of the TRC PhD community, and he has been serving on the organising committee for Edinburgh Napier´s inaugural Doctoral College Student Conference in December 2024. Hendrick has been inspired by his PhD colleagues, and we hope that you will be inspired by reading his words and the enthusiasm he has for his PhD and for actively contributing to research.

If you would like to know more about Hendrick´s research or if you have any questions, you can contact Hendrick here: S.Lattekamp@napier.ac.uk

If you’re interested in undertaking a PhD with us, please email the Tourism Research Centre Lead, Prof. Anna Leask – a.leask@napier.ac.uk

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“I have worked in aviation for almost 20 years and currently serve in a leadership role that involves guiding cabin crews and engaging with a diverse range of passengers for a major European airline. Over the years, I have witnessed how the airline industry brings families, cultures, and businesses closer together, whether through personal visits or trade connections. At the same time, I have encountered many colleagues who are just as deeply passionate about the industry as I am, even as airlines grapple with escalating environmental and social responsibilities. This dynamic—the industry’s power to unite people set against its pressing sustainability challenges—continues to captivate me.

Currently, I am in the first year of my doctoral research at Edinburgh Napier University, where I examine non-financial reporting in the airline industry. My interest in this topic began when I noticed how many airlines struggle to communicate their environmental and social goals and efforts in a way that is both transparent and cohesive. Investigating this phenomenon through the lens of non-financial reporting seemed natural, as these disclosures essentially serve as an airline’s “executive summary” for its broader impact—ranging from greenhouse gas emissions and resource management to labour practices and community engagement. Although several voluntary and mandatory frameworks offer guidelines, there is still a lack of consistency in what gets reported, which can make it difficult to compare airlines or understand their actual impact. Wanting to uncover the root causes behind this fragmented reporting, I decided to examine these disclosures more systematically, looking not only at what is reported but also why certain metrics are highlighted over others.

If we can trace how these documents are produced, particularly the cultural, regulatory, and strategic pressures that guide them, we may identify ways to help both academic researchers and the wider public better grasp an airline’s underlying motives. We might also discover strategies for improving the clarity and relevance of the disclosures themselves, especially when airlines are required to juggle multiple standards and stakeholder expectations. By exploring which reporting tools airlines choose to adopt (and why), we can shed light on whether such choices stem from genuine sustainability commitments, competitive pressures, or mere compliance. Ultimately, my goal is to develop insights that not only help airlines improve the quality of their communication but also facilitate a deeper understanding of the fundamental drivers behind aviation’s efforts to address environmental and social challenges.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my PhD so far has been becoming part of a vibrant research community. Engaging with fellow PhD researchers has been invaluable, not only in refining my work through discussions and feedback but also on a personal level. I have come to understand that undertaking a PhD is as much an intellectual challenge as it is a personal one. Being surrounded by a highly motivated peer group that supports one another has been invaluable in staying focused and driven. Whether it is sharing practical advice on navigating university procedures, exchanging ideas in academic discussions, or simply offering encouragement during challenging moments, this sense of community makes a real difference. A standout experience in this regard, has been serving on the organising committee for Edinburgh Napier’s inaugural Doctoral College Student Conference, in December 2024. As Head of Logistics, I have collaborated with fellow PhD candidates to manage registration, catering, and event coordination. Seeing the breadth of research taking place across the University has been inspiring and has reinforced how much we gain from engaging with colleagues from different disciplines. The opportunity to connect, exchange perspectives, and contribute to a shared academic space has been a highlight of my PhD journey so far.

Embarking on a PhD at a later stage in life has entailed sacrifices and a steep learning curve, but the intellectual challenge has been incredibly rewarding. Meeting other researchers, finding answers to the questions that have long fascinated me, and viewing the aviation industry from entirely new perspectives keeps me motivated. I hope my story encourages others—particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds—to consider doctoral study. If you share my research interests or would like to connect, I’d be happy to continue the conversation.”

Resilient and positive event futures with Associate Professor Martin Robertson

Associate Professor Martin Robertson, has recently given keynote presentations at international conferences*1 *2 (2024), as well as presented related research to his colleagues in the inaugural 2025 Tourism Research Centre research seminar*3 at Edinburgh Napier University.

In different ways, each of the above present research to determine processes of stakeholder involvement in successful ‘future visioning’ for a sustainable future. In each, the United Nations Sustainable development Goals (SDGs) are proposed as vital conduits.

Throughout my career in academia, I have always sought to provide a learning, teaching and research experience that is professionally and socially useful – and encourages positive forward action. Sustainability, resilience, regenerative capacity, social justice, and future vision methodologies are key components of this work. I think my research publications, as well as current and past consultancy collaboration, evidence this well.

Very much grounded in Edinburgh, and Scotland, I have nonetheless lived and worked in many countries. Collaborations with researchers in Australia, Denmark, England, New Zealand, Sweden, and Wales have made me very aware of the truly exciting and profoundly global nature of our subject (s). This is true for our students, our research students, our colleagues, and the places in which live and visit.

As well as publishing widely in my research area, I am also proud of the books (six) and journal special issues (eight) I have co-edited. They serve to stimulate thinking and knowledge around the world. The capacity to share knowledge in a world that has a great many challenges – socially, environmentally, and politically – inspires me. If this stops, I stop!

Here, in Edinburgh, I enjoy the benefits of our wonderful city. It never ceases to amaze. I am very lucky to be living and working in such a great environment. A great location to (en)vision a great future.

*1 Robertson, M. (2024) Keynote speaker: ‘Sustainable events and Net Zero’ 5th International Conference on Tourism and Business (ICTB). Mahidol University International College Bangkok, Thailand (August, 21-23)

*2 Robertson, M. (2024) Keynote Speaker: ‘Learning for future challenges: tourism futures and deep learning applied to teaching the UN SDGs’, 2nd Tourism Futures Convention 2024 (TFC), Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences, Heilbron, Germany (November 13th)

*3 Robertson, M. (2025) Research presentation: ‘Business Events and the Efficacy of UN SDGS for the Knowledge City’, Tourism Research Centre Seminar, Edinburgh Napier University (February 5th)

Meet the Visiting Professor – Associate Professor Judith Mair

Welcome to “Meet the Visiting Professor”, a section dedicated to introducing to you our Visiting Professors, where you will have the opportunity to get to know them and find out how they engage with Edinburgh Napier University, and specifically with the Tourism Research Centre (TRC).

Today, Associate Professor Judith Mair, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, tells us about her strong connections with ENU and TRC researchers, with whom she has been friend for a very long time! Despite being in Australia, she is of Scottish origins, and takes every opportunity she has to come back to connect with family and colleagues.

“Although I now live in Australia, my roots are in Scotland! I grew up in a small village on the West Coast, but I went to university in Edinburgh and fell in love with the city. I stayed there for a few years after graduating, working in the Tourist Information Centre on Princes Street, and then for VisitScotland. I consider Edinburgh to be the place where my involvement with the tourism industry and my tourism and events research interests really started.

After completing a PhD in Tourism at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow (coincidentally at the same time as Dina (Constantia) Anastasiadou), my career took me to Australia, firstly to Victoria University (VU) in Melbourne, then Monash University, and now the University of Queensland in Brisbane. It was at Victoria University that I first met Dr Martin Robertson, then at VU and now at Edinburgh Napier University. We share similar research interests – primarily in sustainability and event management – and have been friends ever since.

My work aims to understand and enhance the positive impacts of tourism and events on the communities and societies which host them and my expertise lies in fields including mega-event legacies, the future of events, the links between events and social connectivity, and the potential impacts of climate change on the events sector.

My holidays are often combined with work-related travel, but when I have the chance, I love to visit the wonderful beaches and coastline of Australia. My favourite destination (apart from Scotland of course!) is probably the Whitsunday Islands in Queensland – the archetypal tropical island paradise with the friendliest locals I’ve ever met. I heartily recommend it!

Although I don’t get the opportunity to visit Edinburgh or Scotland much (the journey from Australia is a pretty long one!), I jump at the chance to come home, and having a visiting role at ENU allows me to combine work and pleasure. I enjoy the opportunity to meet and network with old friends and new and share my research with as wide an audience as possible, both in academia and more broadly with industry and government. I also value the chance to act as a mentor for emerging scholars and provide them with as much support and guidance as I can. I hope to collaborate in publications and ongoing project work in the field of events studies with students and colleagues, particularly in relation to sustainability and climate change, which I feel is one of the most important areas we can study. “

Meet the TRC Alumni – Dr Angelo Sciacca

Welcome to “Meet the TRC Alumni”, a section dedicated to finding out what our TRC PhDs are doing after successfully completing their PhD. This is an opportunity to learning more about the multiple careers offered after doing a PhD with us, as well as catching up with our brilliant researchers.

Today, Dr Angelo Sciacca gives us an update of his career after graduating in 2023 and how the PhD has helped him shape his career. Congratulations are in order for Angelo as he has recently joined the TRC not only as a proud alumnus but as Visiting Senior Fellow! We look forward to seeing what this collaboration will bring in the future!

“I held diverse roles across Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, and Europe. My work focused on advancing circular entrepreneurship in tourism, fostering community-based and ecotourism in coastal and island destinations, and researching smart tourism ecosystems.

I chose Edinburgh Napier University for my PhD because I had already completed my master’s degree there and was highly familiar with the university’s strong reputation for quality research and teaching in the subject.

The focus of my PhD on circular economy and island tourism aligned with my interest in how island territorial dynamics influence the tourism sector’s transition toward more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive models.

My PhD has been instrumental in supporting my career by deepening my expertise in circular economy and island tourism, which are critical areas for the sustainable future of the ecosystems the sector relies on.

I work as a Senior Research Fellow on Blue Tourism at the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations (IDDRI) where I coordinate the Blue Tourism Initiative, a global initiative that aims to improve the governance of coastal and marine tourism to ensure sustainability, focusing on three marine regions: the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Western Indian Ocean.

To new PhD students, I suggest to embrace challenges as part of the learning process, and stay committed to making a meaningful impact with your research.

Professor Kerr gives Keynote Lecture on ‘Business of Science Festivals’ in Mexico

Professor Gary Kerr, an academic within the Tourism Research Centre, has given the Keynote Lecture at the Association of Mexican Museums and Centres for Science & Technology (AMMCCYT) Annual Colloquium 2024, hosted by Centro de Ciencias Explora in León de los Aldama, Guanajuato, Mexico, from 29-31 August 2024.

AMMCCYT brings together science centres and museums from across Mexico. It aims to strengthen the effectiveness of science centre and museums to promote science and technology culture throughout Mexico.

The Annual Colloquium brings together academics, science centre & museum professionals, students and the general public to engage in dialogue, reflect, and exchange ideas, experiences and proposals related to museum spaces and cultural institutions.

During the colloquium, many presentations focused on engaging non-specialist audiences with science & technology and promoting a culture of science and technology across Mexico. The role of science centres and museums in promoting informal science learning was discussed heavily. The colloquium also discussed how science centres and museums can be inclusive spaces for a range of audiences with different needs.

I used my keynote lecture to discuss the ‘Business of Science Festivals’ and how science centres and museums could utilise science festivals as a means to strengthen existing audiences and reach new audiences. I also spoke about the power of science festivals in addressing inequity within the science, technology, engineering & maths (STEM) sectors.

During my keynote, I drew upon my research and practitioner roles in curating science festivals. In the UK, the term ‘science festival’ has been around since 1989, when the Edinburgh Science Festival was first launched. However, public science & technology events date back to the days of the Ancient Greeks when philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle would speak about their theories in public to the masses. The British Association for the Advancement of Science (now the British Science Association) has been holding annual meetings around the UK each year since 1831, and these have evolved into the contemporary British Science Festival – a festival that moves around the UK each year.

Despite 35-year the coming of age of UK science festivals, the STEM sector remains inequitable. There is a gender imbalance in the STEM sector with 65% of the UK’s STEM workforce being white men (Keith & Kerr, 2022). The lack of diversity in the STEM is not limited to gender, but runs through multiple strands of diversity (Keith & Kerr, 2022). There is also an inadequately trained STEM workforce, with around 40% of STEM vacancies difficult to fill (Keith & Kerr, 2022).

In my keynote, I spoke about the value of science festivals, but did go on to highlight that they do not provide a silver bullet to solve all the problems of the STEM sector. I spoke about the value of other types of festivals – including literature, film, music and arts festivals – and how these might provide a platform (albeit limited) for engaging non-specialist audiences with science. I also discussed the need to take into account socio-cultural issues when communicating science at festivals with diverse audiences. These include demonstrating appreciation for religious, cultural and historical sensitivities when communicating with audiences.

My invitation to deliver the Keynote Lecture at AMMCYT further strengthens Tourism Research Centre’s strong links with Mexico, which include delivering the Creative Leadership Programme on behalf of British Council Mexico in 2023 and 2024.

Reference

Keith, L. and Kerr, G. W. (2022). ‘Levelling the playing field: lessons from sport on re-framing science engagement as a benefit to the individual’. JCOM 21 (04), A03. https://doi.org/10.22323/2.21040203

Meet the PhD – Homa Rahimi

Today, we have Homa Rahimi, a PhD candidate originally from Iran, who is currently in her 2^nd year. Her PhD title is “The Implications of lean Talent Management on Optimising Strategic Value of People in the UK Hotel Sector” with supervisors Prof Paul Barron, Prof Anna Leask and Dr Kelsy Hejjas. Many of you might agree with Homa’s words, when she says that she originally started her PhD for academic reasons, to later find out that a PhD is much more than that, the skills you learn throughout the PhD journey are extremely valuable not only for a future career but also in life. Homa is also the 2024 winner of best poster at the Edinburgh Napier University Business Conference. Congratulations Homa!!

If you would like to know more about Homa’s research or if you have any questions, you can contact Homa here: homa.rahimi@napier.ac.uk

If you’re interested in undertaking a PhD with us, please email the Tourism Research Centre Lead, Prof. Anna Leask – a.leask@napier.ac.uk

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“I’m Homa Rahimi from Iran, currently in my second year of PhD studies at Edinburgh Napier University. My academic journey in the UK began with a focus on governance and public policy, sparked by my second master’s degree. This experience provided a foundation for my deeper investigation into organisational management, especially through the lens of New Public Management (NPM). As a result, I developed a keen interest in Human Resource Management (HRM), particularly in the areas of talent management, employee development, and capability building. These interests became central to my MSc degree in HRM at Napier University, reinforcing my enthusiasm for understanding how organisations can best manage and enhance their most valuable asset—people.

My PhD research focuses on the application of Lean thinking to Talent Management within the hotel industry. I chose this topic due to the success story of Lean thinking, which has effectively improved efficiency and performance in various sectors. I am particularly interested in how these principles can be adapted to enhance talent management practices in the hospitality sector, which is crucial to the UK’s employment and economy. The hotel industry relies heavily on human capital and addressing issues like talent spillage—where skills and potential are underutilised—can reduce talent-related waste and optimise people management.

Edinburgh Napier University was the perfect choice for me due to my previous positive experience during my master’s degree, the supportive environment, and the student-friendly atmosphere of the institution. Its strong focus on tourism and hospitality management, coupled with its excellent reputation in these fields, made it an ideal fit. Additionally, the opportunity to work with distinguished supervisors like Professors Barron and Leask, and Dr. Hejjas was an exciting draw.

What makes my PhD research particularly significant is its potential to reshape both academic thought and practical approaches. The hotel industry continually grapples with challenges in managing and retaining talent, and my research aims to address these issues with innovative solutions. By applying Lean principles to Talent Management—an area still underdeveloped in this context—I seek to uncover new insights that could lead to more efficient and effective human resource practices. This exciting endeavour promises to make a meaningful impact on both the theoretical and practical aspects of talent management in the hospitality sector.

When I first considered pursuing a PhD, I saw it primarily as an academic pursuit—a way to delve deeper into my areas of interest. However, as I have progressed, I have come to realise that a PhD is much more than that. It is a journey of personal growth, requiring resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to making a meaningful contribution to my field. My understanding of the PhD process has evolved, and I now see it as an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, making a tangible difference in the real world. Being part of the PhD community has been pivotal to my journey. The support, collaboration, and shared experiences within this group have given me the motivation and encouragement needed to overcome challenges and remain focused on my goals. The sense of belonging to a network of like-minded individuals, all navigating similar paths, has been invaluable. Additionally, I’ve found lifelong friends along the way, enriching my experience both personally and professionally.

In my experience, three essential skills for a PhD student are critical analysis, time management, and adaptability. Critical analysis is vital for assessing existing literature and contributing original research. Time management is crucial for balancing the various demands of PhD life, including research, writing, networking, and professional development. Adaptability is key to navigating the unexpected challenges that arise during the PhD journey, requiring flexibility and resilience to stay on track and achieve research objectives.

Looking ahead, I am most excited about the potential impact of my research. I am driven by the prospect of transforming talent management in the hotel industry, contributing to more effective and sustainable HR practices. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, the opportunity to effect positive change keeps me inspired and motivated. Additionally, I am eager to enhance the industry’s image, showing it as a viable and rewarding career path rather than one that is often overlooked.”

Meet the TRC Alumni – Dr Shemroy

Today, Dr Shemroy Roberts talks about his PhD journey and his career after successfully discussing his PhD in November 2023. From St. Vincent and the Grenadines to Scotland, let’s find out about Shemroy Roberts’ Journey of growth, and resilience.

Dr Roberts is also organizing together with ENU colleagues “Roots Revived: Memory, Legacy, Heritage and Tourism Conference”, taking place on October 17, 2024, at our Craiglockhart Campus. The conference provides a platform for exploring the complex dynamics of difficult and dissonant heritage within the broader context of memory, legacy, heritage, and tourism. Recognising the lasting impact of historical traumas, contested narratives, and marginalised voices, this conference seeks to promote dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation. The conference also seeks to explore the ethical, social, and cultural complexities involved in commemorating and engaging with painful histories. If you would like to know more, and send an abstract, please visit the following webpage: https://lnkd.in/eDCFVkJb

“I am Shemroy Roberts, hailing from the Caribbean nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines—a chain of islands covering 150 square miles and home to approximately 104,000 people. I come from a very large family, with seven siblings on my mother’s side and twelve on my father’s, as far as I am aware. My mother was a shopkeeper, while my father was a politician, drove delivery trucks, tilled the soil, cultivated fruits and vegetables, and raised pigs. I am the only one of my mother’s children to have attended university—a milestone made possible by the unwavering support of my parents. Their influence has been instrumental in my educational journey and subsequent successes, and I am grateful for their contributions.

In 2012, I earned an Associate’s Degree in Hospitality Studies from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. This achievement was just the beginning of a journey that would take me far beyond the shores of my homeland. I went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management from the University of the West Indies, graduating in 2018. It was during my time in this programme that I stumbled upon Scotland—quite serendipitously—while writing a paper on sustainable tourism practices. Intrigued by Scotland’s approach to tourism and its rich history, I was able to visit the country. What I discovered completely captured my heart.

My interest in Scotland led me to research universities offering advanced tourism programmes, and I discovered Edinburgh Napier University through a YouTube video featuring Dr. Ross Tinsley discussing International Tourism and Destination Marketing. That same year, I embarked on a Master of Science in International Tourism Marketing at Edinburgh Napier University. I knew immediately that this was the place for me. The programme offered everything I was looking for—the tools and resources to help me understand how to develop tourism products and services that could elevate my home country, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as a premier destination in the Caribbean.

My academic interests have always been driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to my home country’s development, to educate visitors about our destination and its culture and history, and to enhance the socio-economic well-being of local communities. I began my PhD at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by significant global events such as the tragic death of George Floyd, Black Lives Matter protests, the controversial removal and defacement of statues linked to the transatlantic slave trade, and, more recently, the far-right riots in the UK and Europe, have continued to fuel discussions on racism, fascism, and Islamophobia. These events underscored the relevance of my research, which focused on visitor engagement with UK slavery heritage museums. My work has provided valuable insights for academics, museum professionals, and society at large, contributing to a broader understanding of how we engage with our shared history. It is, therefore, important that we stay mindful of our history, including the transatlantic slave trade and other significant events that have shaped our present. By reflecting on these past injustices, we can work together to avoid repeating them and address issues like war, racism, fascism, and enslavement. As a scholar, I have a role to play in shaping the society we want through research, open discussion, and mutual respect —a society that values peace, freedom, democracy, inclusivity, and development for all.

As a person of mixed race, I have always been aware of the nuances of my identity but never really fixated on them. However, I frequently face questions about my identity from friends and even family. My PhD research, however, led me to a deeper understanding of my heritage, revealing that I am connected to both the enslaved and the enslavers. My mother is a descendant of the enslaved, while my father’s lineage traces back to the enslavers. This discovery was both profound and enlightening, allowing me to embrace the duality of my heritage and appreciate the complexities of my identity.

My PhD journey was not without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, a volcanic eruption in my home country, and my mother’s battle with type 2 diabetes, which led to the amputation of her left leg—took a considerable toll on my mental health. With self-determination, I forged ahead amidst these adversities to complete my PhD on time. I am immensely proud to have reached this summit and overcome the many obstacles. I was fortunate to have the guidance of Associate Professor Craig Wight and Professor Anna Leask, whose constructive feedback and support were invaluable throughout my studies. I am deeply grateful to them for their mentorship. I also leaned on a strong support network, including family and friends, who provided encouragement and kept me grounded during difficult times.

Before pursuing my PhD, I worked in various roles in my home country, including as an insurance salesperson, a secondary school teacher in Food and Nutrition and Family and Human Resources Management, and a hotel receptionist. During my PhD, I had the opportunity to teach several modules in research, tourism, hospitality, and festivals and events at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels at Edinburgh Napier University. My experience in academia has been immensely rewarding. Currently, I serve as the Course Coordinator in Culture and Heritage Tourism and as a research supervisor for the management programmes at the University of the West Indies Global Campus, where I have been in these roles for the past four years. Additionally, I have been an Assistant Chief Examiner with the Caribbean Examinations Council for the past eight years.

My PhD has equipped me with the skills to succeed in any workplace and has provided me with the tools to make meaningful contributions to research. It has also expanded my professional network, allowing me to connect with scholars worldwide, some of whom I now collaborate with as an editor for the Journal of International Tourism Policy. I have been fortunate to receive several awards at conferences, a testament to the strong presentation skills my PhD has honed. Additionally, my PhD has supported my grant-writing efforts, enabling me to secure funding for community projects, with more initiatives on the horizon.

My hobbies and interests include listening to classical music, cooking, baking, reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. And yes! I must confess, Scotland has left its mark on my culinary skills and salivary glands. I absolutely love haggis!

$Dr Shemroy holding flag$

To new and prospective PhD students, my advice is simple: start writing early, value your supervisors’ guidance, and engage actively in diplomatic and constructive discussions. Make use of university resources, set realistic deadlines, learn from others, and remember to balance work with self-care. Most importantly, be kind to yourself, stay humble, and above all, enjoy the experience.

“Bidh àite sònraichte aig Alba agus Oilthigh Napier Dhùn Èideann an-còmhnaidh nam chridhe,” meaning “Scotland and Edinburgh Napier University will always hold a special place in my heart.” The lessons I have learned and the connections I have made here will stay with me forever.

“Nisi sapientia frustra,” meaning “without knowledge, all is in vain.”

Meet Dr. Alan Fyall – Visiting Professor

Welcome to “Meet the Visiting Professor”, a section dedicated to introducing to you our Visiting Professors, where you will have the opportunity to get to know them, and find out how they engage with Edinburgh Napier University, and specifically with the Tourism Research Centre (TRC).

Today, Dr. Alan Fyall talks about his career, how he started collaborating with TRC, and more specifically what he hopes to achieve in the future. And if you are a football fan, then you might understand his obsession with Southampton Football Club!

Originally from Edinburgh, I grew up in Southampton and was lucky to travel widely due to my parent’s desire to provide us with the best vacations they could afford. These early travel experiences, most notably to France, Spain and the USA, created a fascination with international travel and a thirst for discovery of new places. I have been fortunate to visit around 50 countries around the world to date with each one offering different insights and experiences that to varying degrees have shaped my research and engagement with the tourism industry. Strangely perhaps, I am not a great pre-planner for trips as I like to simply “walk the destination” and discover what the destination has to offer before being overly influenced by travel writers! My favorite destination remains France with Turkmenistan definitely the weirdest place I’ve ever visited! As well as travel, my other “obsession” is football where I am a huge supporter of Southampton Football Club, an experience which is not always positive!

Due to Edinburgh being my place of birth, and having worked at Edinburgh Napier University between 1997-2000, I have always been committed to helping colleagues here as much as I can. Over the years I have established a deep friendship with Dr. Anna Leask, among others, and have published many journal articles and books with ENU faculty. Edinburgh is such a fantastic place to visit, live and study while its history and heritage offers a great contrast to my home city of Orlando, Florida with its world-leading theme parks and attractions.

For the future, I hope to contribute to the development and expansion of the Destination Leaders Program, possibly national and international and serve as a “critical friend” and develop training to enhance academic authorship and external grant submissions for faculty, and training for current and future doctoral students in research methods, and early career development. I would also like to support and develop specific funding opportunities that span destination management, accessible and inclusive tourism, sustainability and destination/community resilience while teach students at the undergraduate and graduate levels in destination management and marketing and provide connections to his networks across the world.