Assuming the helm, lashed to the tiller
We have just held the company's AGM, at which time my father retired from the board after more than 40 years' service - a most emotional occasion, as well as a company milestone.
He has certainly witnessed a few changes since his first days, and the past eight years have been hugely beneficial in terms of learning from his wisdom and experience.
I am not now on my own, though, as I have a very capable team of six senior managers, as well as my fellow directors - one of whom is my mother - to assist me.
The improvements to the leisure club and Victorian Pool are nearing completion. We are fortunate to have two swimming pools, one of which is being converted into an adults-only spa based on a Victorian theme.
The extension of our golf course is taking shape, and a year from now we will have our own 18-hole course, as well as a pitch-and-putt course, very popular with families.
We have just finished trading for the first quarter of the financial year. Revenue is generally disappointing, but profit seems to be holding.
On the teamwork side, our various teams and divisions are working together well just now. And we have just had our Support Team Retreat, which involved a 24-hour stay at another hotel, in order to map out the short- and medium-term future of our company. This has given me a great deal of food for thought.
This week, I attended the Best Western Scottish Regional Meeting, of which I am chairman. As usual, some very positive strokes came, in particular from the Best Western executive.
As part of my continuous personal and professional development, I am working towards my Yachtmaster Practical Sailing qualification. This involved a five-day sail last week to Barra, in the Outer Hebrides.
The sea crossing took its toll on everyone, as we were beating into a force six wind and lashing rain. On the way back, we stopped in Inverie, the only small village I have ever visited with one road which doesn't lead anywhere.
Amazingly the pub, the Old Forge, was incredibly busy, with libations aplenty! Just the sort of thing for a weary sailor.
It just goes to show there are still quite a few surprises in our industry.
STEPHEN LECKIE is managing director of the Crieff Hydro leisure hotel in Crieff, Perthshire
Next diary from Stephen Leckie: 23 August
