Roddy Watt is currently CEO of Highland Coast Hotels, a company he founded and established in 2021 to develop a collection of quality 4 Star boutique properties around the North Highlands.  Previously, Roddy was Founder of both The Hotel Management Company which specialised in advising owners and/or managing independent hotel properties across the UK.  In his early career, Roddy established the Berkeley Scott Group as the then market-leading recruitment company in the Hospitality sector.

  • What is the best thing about your current job or role in the industry?

The variety and scope of the challenge of establishing a new company from scratch, and the ability to impact positively on the economic and social fabric of this very sensitive part of our lovely country

  • What was your first job in the hospitality/foodservice or tourism industry?

I was Duty Food & Beverage Manager at the Carlton Tower Hotel which meant I had a very large bunch of keys and no authority to do anything!

  • Who has been your biggest influence during your career?

My ex-Chairman at Berkely Scott, Rupert Bayfield who taught me the little I know about establishing new businesses.

  • What key piece of advice would you give the future generation of hospitality professionals?

Work hard, go that extra mile, appreciate that there is always more to do – and do it, and listen to what is going on around you.  You will fly….

  • What is your favourite restaurant or type of food?

Simple, classical cuisine – particularly seafood.

  • What is your favourite dish?

A tough one, but hard to beat a really good Sirloin Steak with Bearnaise Sauce and all the trimmings! Lobster is a pretty close second, oh, and Oysters!

  • What is your favourite drink?

A good dram with ice and plenty of water – blended, not Malt.

  • What or who are you looking forward most to see or meet at ScotHot 23?

Innovation and anything that is breaking the mold….