A Series of Learning Opportunities

Since Scottish Water was created back in 2002, Douglas has played a key role in the development of the company, culminating in his current role as Chief Executive.

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"Very privileged to be selected, but very privileged too to have had so many opportunities in life and encouragement from many people over my career."

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"That's a long time ago! I think it was the broad-based nature of the undergraduate business education enabling me to gain a good overview of business and key business disciplines."

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"Spend some time doing a highly repetitive job—the insights will make you a much better leader."

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"Enjoyable, relevant course content that prepared me well for early working life."

What key thing that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

"Life is a series of learning opportunities where one experience layers on another. Edinburgh University gave me a great business foundation on which the other layers have been built and integrated."

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"The creation and development of Scottish Water over the past 18 years."