Gemma Cruickshank graduated from NESCol with an HND in Travel & Tourism in 2011. Thirteen years later, she’s travelled the world, enjoyed a successful career and now leads Visit Moray Speyside as CEO.

Gemma’s journey began at the age of 17, when she left school and decided to continue her education at College.

She said: “I opted to study at NESCol because there was a wide selection of courses available, and staying close to home was important to me at the time.

“I chose the course because a career in tourism offers the chance to see the world. The idea of helping people learn about different cultures and customs and create memories really appealed to me.”

Studying at NESCol

The HND Travel & Tourism course opened Gemma’s eye to the many opportunities in the sector.

She said: “Studying at NESCol played an important part in shaping my career path.

“The course gave me a solid understanding of key topics such as customer service, air travel tour operations and marketing principles.

“The practical aspect of the HND helped me develop essential skills that have been vital to my professional success, such as problem solving and effective communication.”

A highlight of her time at College was meeting students from a range of different backgrounds who all shared her passion for travel.

She said: “Working with my fellow students on group projects gave me fresh perspectives and insights into the industry – and I made lifelong friends in the process.”

Gemma completed her HND and progressed to third year of a BA in International Tourism Management at RGU, graduating two years later.

Working in the travel & tourism sector

Gemma’s exciting career in the tourism industry kicked off after university, when she secured her first job at VisitScotland in Aberdeen. Here, she worked as a Visitor Services Advisor, helping tourists discover the North East.

She said: “My first role at VisitScotland allowed me to build my confidence and communication skills, as well as my knowledge of the tourism sector.

“I then progressed into a Business Development Executive role. I liaised with hotels, venues and attractions in the area to market Aberdeen as a top location for conferences and events.”

Gemma worked for VisitScotland for five years, during which she was promoted several times. In 2016, she won the Regional Rising Star category at the Aberdeen City & Shire Tourism Awards, demonstrating the incredible impact she was making in the industry.

After VisitScotland, Gemma worked in a range of event roles in Moray, including at Glenfiddich Distillery and Mayerston Golf Course. Having built up years of industry experience, Gemma achieved her dream job in 2022: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Visit Moray Speyside.

Tourism career highlights

Gemma has thrived in the industry – and loved every second of it!

She said: “One standout moment of my career so far was organising large international tourism conferences, attended by key industry leaders.

“Being part of events of this scale was beneficial, not only for myself professionally, but also for the tourism sector, as they drive innovation and improvement.

“I feel very lucky that my career has allowed me to visit destinations all over the world and meet people who share my love of travelling and have similar mindsets.

“I’ll never get bored of seeing the happiness on a traveller’s face – it reminds me why I work in this industry!”

Gemma’s advice to travel & tourism students

She said: “There are a number of things you can do to support your learning journey and future career: stay curious; gain practical experience such as an internship or volunteering; remain respectful of other cultures, and work on having excellent communication skills.

“Studying travel and tourism at NESCol opened many doors for me. Take every opportunity that comes your way, and you’ll find yourself on an amazing journey, and with one of most rewarding careers out there.”