The national director of Sustrans Scotland enjoys the unseen work behind Scotland's walking and cycling paths

What makes a good day at work?

The best days are those when I get to see our Scotland team making a difference on the ground. So much unseen work goes into delivering a new walking and cycling route or helping school children learn to cycle safely or working with government and other organisations on better transport strategy. It’s a fantastic feeling when this all comes to fruition.

What do you procrastinate over?

The hardest decisions to make are always those which touch on human issues or affect how Sustrans works internally.

What turns you into the office Victor Meldrew?

People not washing up cups in the kitchen.

Is the third sector a calling or an accident?

It was a lucky accident, in the sense it came at just the right time. I enjoy working in the third sector very much. I have been the national director of Sustrans Scotland for 13 years. Before that I was the project director for the Newsplan 200 project at the National Library Service.

What happens during your perfect weekend?

A weekend with my family, with a good walk or bike ride and a win for Hibs.

What’s your favourite album?

That changes week to week! For quite a long time it was Darkness On The Edge Of Town by Bruce Springsteen but, recently it’s been replaced by The Gift by The Jam

Would we all be better off if charities did more in our society?

Yes, I think we would.

You’re home, fully fed with your feet up – which comes first Eastenders or Facebook?

I don’t do Facebook, but I do use Instagram and Twitter. I would choose those two over the telly.

Is this a step on the ladder or your final destination?

I’m always willing to be minister for transport if anyone asks me to. It’s always been my dream to become the transport minister!

What do you think are the main strengths of the Scottish charity sector?

The passion and enthusiasm of staff, volunteers and supporters mean that Scottish charities punch well above their weight and make a real difference to Scotland.

What does your dream retirement look like?

Lots of time with my wife, Arlene, and lots of cycling and walking.

Brian Denis Cox or Brian Edward Cox?

(Heads of to google the different Brian Coxs). Brian Denis Cox.

John Lauder is the national director of Sustrans Scotland, which works to ensure the people of Scotland have access to a network of safe walking and cycling routes