Neil McLean of the Social Enterprise Academy is suspicious of Facebook, loves an epic movie and doesn't think he'd like to work for himself
What makes a good day at work?
Working with colleagues at the Academy always makes for a great day at work.
What’s the worst thing that’s happened this month?
We had the very sad news that one of our (remarkable) board members passed away. Chris Higgins was one of the good guys and we will miss him.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Read Carol Dweck’s book on Growth Mindset sooner rather than later… I used to think that my skills were somehow fixed; defined by some set of circumstances beyond my control. It was great to learn about learning!
I found the third sector by accident, but it is a calling to be engaged with learning to change the world
Will Brexit help or hinder Scotland’s social enterprises?
Who knows? We all need to adapt to tricky circumstances and be outward looking… the successful ones will definitely thrive regardless of the circumstances facing them. It is a function of leadership rather than political landscape in my view.
What’s your favourite social enterprise apart from your own?
Having been at the Homeless World Cup last night, I’d have to say them, but there are so many inspiring social enterprises in Scotland it’s a hard choice. I’d have to mention Kibble at the larger end of the market; Recykabike in the recycling world – we had our board meeting there last month and it’s a fantastic social enterprise in Stirling doing some great things.
Is Facebook your friend or your enemy?
For the Academy, it’s been a great way to connect with our learners. That said, I’ve not been a great fan of Facebook for personal use – it seems to put a great deal of pressure on our young people in trying to create these online personas.
What’s the best thing that’s happened this month?
From a work point of view, we’re just completing an organisational review which was a wee bit overdue so that’s very energising. On the home front, my son got a job. Great news. Especially for the bank of Dad!
What’s your favourite film?
Something epic and true (ish) like Ghandi or Chariots of Fire.
What does perfect weekend look like?
It starts with a game of 5-a-side football with a bunch of mates, then a long walk in the hills with my partner and our lovely dog. It'll also include an evening out at the pictures or a meal and a leisurely Sunday visiting our friends and family.
Is the third sector a calling or an accident?
Yes. Definitely both. For me I found it by accident, but it is a calling to be engaged with learning to change the world.
Do you socialise with colleagues outside the Christmas party?
I live in Stirling so my socialising in Edinburgh is limited, but yes I enjoy spending time with colleagues. We have arranged a fundraising half marathon (10k or walk) in October to raise monies for Macmillan, who were an amazing support to Chris in his last days.
Can social enterprises ever make money?
Of course. It’s tough for most social enterprises, who by necessity engage a blended income strategy, but there are many who are doing very well and are paying back investors, loans and investing profits back into the purpose of their organisation.
If you were your boss would you like you?
I suspect not. Probably one of the main reasons I became a CE was that I was running out of people that would willingly be my boss.
Is this a rung on the ladder to success or your final destination?
I’d hate to worry my colleagues here at the Academy by suggesting this is my final destination. Having said that, I’ve never looked at my work life as some form of planned career. Maybe I should have. I’ll have to give that some thought…
Which Brian Cox?
I’d have to say the stargazer – I really enjoy the Infinite Monkey Cage (podcast from radio 4).
