Lanarkshire

Business Adviser

Gemma

Possessing a First-Class Honours degree in Management and a diverse background spanning the hospitality, automotive, and education sectors, Gemma brings a wealth of experience to the table.

With a proven track record of successfully managing her own business, she has developed a keen insight into the challenges that startups encounter and possesses a comprehensive understanding of the essential elements for launching and sustaining a thriving business.

Business Adviser

Iona

Iona is a business adviser with a First Class BA (Hons) in International Marketing. Her academic background has equipped her with a strong foundation in marketing strategy, brand management and consumer perspectives.

Following a yearlong internship with Skills Development Scotland, Iona gained valuable insights into the Scottish skills landscape, and enjoys sharing her knowledge to assist individuals achieve their business aspirations.

Business Adviser

James

James joined the team in May 2023 having completed his BA (Hons) in Business Studies at the University of Stirling where he took in interest in strategy and finance. During his time at university James undertook the role of a charitable ambassador which saw him raise awareness of men’s health all around Scotland.

James thrives in supporting clients across the region start up, offering guidance throughout the process and help clients grow their business.

Business Adviser

Meghan

Meghan graduated with an Honours degree in Business Management and spent five years supporting students' entrepreneurial endeavours at various universities.

Now, as a Business Gateway Business Adviser, she channels her expertise to empower aspiring business owners. With a commitment to their success, Meghan provides tailored guidance and strategic insights to help drive impact.

Business Adviser

Ailsa

With a distinction master’s degree in Tourism Marketing Management from the University of Strathclyde, Ailsa has proven track record of supporting small and medium sizes businesses through her time spent working at a Destination Management Organisation in the Highlands.

Ailsa has continued to make an impact in the Business Gateway Lanarkshire team by forging strong working partnerships with local businesses in Lanarkshire. Through her attentive approach and deep understanding of client needs, she provides tailored support and guidance to small enterprises, empowering them to thrive in a competitive market landscape.

Business Adviser

Mark

With a twenty-year career in the banking, mortgage and B2B sector, Mark brings this financial knowledge with him to the role of Growth Business Adviser. He also worked supporting the Police services throughout the UK with their financial and mental wellbeing.

Business Adviser

Deborah

After building a successful career for many years in business management across the hospitality sector, Debbie has recently graduated with a first-class Honours Degree in Rural Business Management from the University of Glasgow. Her degree is also accompanied by several national awards focused on business administration, project management and implementation.

Debbie clearly understands what it takes to build and maintain financially stable companies. She works closely with prospective business owners providing advice on how they can develop their plans and achieve their goals.

Business Adviser

Kurt

Kurt Scheepers is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning both the public and private sectors. With a career that began in South Africa, Kurt ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his own tax consultancy and fitness venture.

Relocating to the UK, he immersed himself in the business landscape, holding various roles from Team Leader to Business & Skills Adviser at Business Link which evolved working with Growth Hubs whilst managing his own property portfolio. Kurt is dedicated to empowering SMEs in strategy, business planning, development, management, and coaching. Kurt's academic achievements include a BA (Hons) in Business and Management, a SFEDI Level 7 Diploma in Business and Enterprise Support, and an Associate Diploma of the Institute of Bankers (South Africa), among others.

Senior Business Adviser

John

A qualified marketing specialist, John supports clients with the creation and implementation of strategic business and marketing plans. Through his expert advice and significant experience, he also supports clients on the new products and process development.

John has an excellent track record at supporting businesses to put together investment raising plans, with a particular success in supporting clients to gain RSA funding.

Senior Business Adviser

Craig

Following a decade in financial services, Craig chose to embark on a new career, starting his own business in the cycle industry. Founding the business, and successfully growing it over 17 years into an established premium retailer has given him extensive experience of, and insight into the entrepreneurial journey.

Having sold the business to take on new challenges, he is now using the skills developed to support other businesses in fulfilling their potential and achieving their goals.