Heather Macmillan Cert CIH Level 3 – Head of HMO & Investment

What made you return to Cairn?

I missed the strong team ethos, everyone supports one another, and there’s a real sense of genuine friendship amongst the team. At Cairn you feel valued, and I missed being part of such an amazing group of people.

Describe your role in one sentence at Cairn ?

As Head of HMO & Investment, my role can be intense, busy, rewarding, no two days are the same, exciting and lots of fun!

What is your proudest business achievement ?

All my relationships I’ve built up with clients over the years, I know they trust me 100% – it is nice for me to know how much they value our working relationship.

How has your industry changed in the last decade ?

The lettings industry has changed hugely with the ever-changing legislation, the biggest change being moving from SAT to PRT tenancies. This had a massive impact on the letting of HMO properties as we could no longer set the usual 12 month contracts to begin and end during the summer months for typical ‘HMO season’

Give us an interesting fact about yourself ?

I can’t leave the house without checking I’ve turned everything off about three times!

What is the best piece of business advice you have been given ?

Always be honest, communicate and do not hide behind emails – this is the ethos I live by and always encourage my team to do the same to ensure we provide good customer service at all times.

What advice would you give your 18 year old self?

Don’t stress over things out-with your control. 

Who are your hero’s inside and outside of business ?

My dad is my hero inside business having started several successful businesses, I admire his hard-work and determination to provide for our family.

My mum is my hero outside business, she is one of the strongest people I’ve ever met.

What qualities do you most admire in others ?

Honesty, hardworking, loyalty, team-player.

How do you unwind out of work ?

Going to the beach to watch the sunset with my dog or if its raining cosy up in front of the fire with the dog and a glass of red!

Where is your favourite place in Scotland ?

St Andrews or Aviemore