OUR PEOPLE
Behind the Scottish Tourist Guides Association is a dedicated team who support our members, clients and industry partners. From managing guide enquiries and bookings to supporting professional development and membership services, our team helps ensure the smooth running of the Association and maintains the high standards for which the STGA is known.
Our office hours are Monday – Friday, 09:00 – 17:00
MEET THE TEAM
GILLIAN BARRET
As Association Manager, Gillian leads the daily operations of the STGA, working closely with the Board, members and tourism partners across Scotland.
She oversees governance, member support, industry relationships and organisational development, ensuring the Association continues to deliver value to its members and maintain the highest professional standards.
SARAH CADGER
Sarah is at the heart of the Association’s day-to-day administration, supporting members with everything from accreditation badges and records management to digital systems and website maintenance. She also manages key administrative processes that help keep the STGA running smoothly and efficiently.
ANGELA FRASER
Angela leads the development and delivery of the STGA’s training programmes, ensuring aspiring guides receive the knowledge, skills and support needed to achieve accreditation. Working both in the office and on- site, she collaborates with trainers, trainees and industry partners to maintain the high standards of professional guide training for which the STGA is recognised.
CATRIONA LLOYD
Catriona provides administrative and operational support for the STGA’s training programmes. Working closely with trainees, trainers and course organisers, she helps coordinate training activities, manages programme administration and supports the smooth delivery of guide training across Scotland.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2025/2026
The Scottish Tourist Guides Association is governed by a Board of Directors elected by and from its membership. The Board provides strategic leadership, supports good governance and helps shape the future direction of the Association, ensuring it continues to serve its members and support Scotland’s tourism industry.
The Board works closely with the Association Manager and office team to oversee key areas including organisational development, professional standards, finance, membership and industry engagement.
FERGUS HALLIDAY
EWAN SKINNER
ROBERT BOWLES
BO FRASER
ALISTAIR HECTOR
FEDERICA GIACOBBE
PAULA BENASSI
DR STEPHEN CRIBB
OUR GUIDES
With more than 500 members throughout Scotland, STGA guides bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and local expertise to every tour.
Our members offer a diverse range of specialist interests and language skills, enabling us to cater for visitors from around the world. Whether guiding solo travellers, families and friends, leisure groups or corporate groups, STGA guides are committed to delivering informative, engaging and memorable experiences.
All STGA guides are professionally trained and accredited. Members are required to adhere to our Code of Conduct and Standards of Performance, ensuring the highest levels of professionalism and service.
OUR HERITAGE AND LEADERSHIP
The STGA Coat of Arms
The STGA’s Coat of Arms is a dark blue shield featuring a saltire and a thistle, reflecting Scotland’s national identity and the Association’s proud heritage.
The Coat of Arms is a symbol of quality, professionalism and trust. Its use is protected by the Court of the Lord Lyon King of Arms, Scotland’s heraldic authority.
Honorary President
Sandy Maxwell-Forbes
Director, The Great Tapestry of Scotland
Honorary Members
Honorary Life Membership is awarded in recognition of outstanding service to the Scottish Tourist Guides Association.
Current Honorary Members:
Kevin Connelly
Dr Con Gillen
Mike Williamson