Born in Glasgow, Gary Maclean is an award-winning chef with 35 years of experience in Scotland’s hospitality industry. Appointed Scotland’s National Chef by the Scottish Government, Gary champions food health, education, and Scottish produce globally. A passionate advocate for food education, he has taught at City of Glasgow College for over 25 years, earning recognition such as Educator of the Year (2016) and Chef Lecturer of the Year (2017). Gary's achievements include winning MasterChef: The Professionals in 2016 and receiving honors like the Scotland Colleges Hall of Fame induction, the Mark Twain Award (2021), and PACE’s Best Industry Ambassador Award (2023). He also holds fellowships with the Master Chefs of Great Britain and the International Institute of Hospitality Management India. As a seasoned presenter on TV and radio, Gary has appeared on BBC Landward and international shows. He has authored several books, including The Scottish Kitchen (Penguin Random House) and Scottish Celebrations (2023). Gary owns Creel Caught, a sustainable seafood restaurant, and Soup & Caboodle, a Scottish deli in Edinburgh. He actively promotes Scottish food and culture worldwide. Follow his journey on social media @Gmacchef or at garymacchef.com.

What do you think are the greatest opportunities for the Scottish tourism, retail and hospitality industries in 2025?

As a chef and educator, I believe 2025 offers incredible opportunities for Scotland to solidify its reputation as a world-class destination for food and drink. The global demand for authentic, sustainable, and locally-sourced experiences plays directly to our strengths. By showcasing Scotland’s exceptional produce—like seafood, whisky, and game—through immersive dining, festivals, and culinary tourism, we can attract new visitors and bolster retail and hospitality sectors. Additionally, investing in skills development, especially for young talent, will ensure our industries remain innovative and resilient.

What are you looking most forward to seeing, meeting, or attending at ScotHot?

For me, ScotHot is more than just an industry event—it’s a bi-annual reunion where I get to catch up with old friends, former colleagues, and industry peers. It’s a chance to share stories, reflect on how far we’ve come, and draw inspiration from the incredible talent across Scotland’s hospitality sector. I’m always excited to see the latest innovations and trends in food and drink, but what truly stands out is the sense of community. Whether it’s reconnecting with former students who are now making waves in the industry or exchanging ideas with old workmates, it’s these connections that make ScotHot so special.

Why do you think events like ScotHot are important to the industry?

Events like ScotHot play a crucial role in showcasing Scotland’s hospitality industry, highlighting its significance to both our economy and cultural identity. They celebrate the pride we have in our craft while emphasizing the industry’s potential to make an even greater mark on the global stage.