STEP Stirling/Stirling Enterprise

"We provide a customised operation for corporate clients, individuals and groups. We will make all the arrangements in line with the customers' specifications right down to the last detail. And with help from Business Gateway we're expanding our overseas market thanks to funding which they helped us secure to attend a greater number of luxury travel trade shows," said Graeme. Dorothy Henke, Business Adviser with Business Gateway Stirling, said: "Executive Golf and Leisure is an excellent example of a small, independent business operating at a top level both at home and abroad. Graeme has attended Business Gateway strategy workshops and has taken advantage of our IT expertise to help scope a new computer system. The business is a Growth Pipeline client and we are delighted to support Graeme's plans to increase global awareness of his company." "Business Gateway Stirling has been very helpful over the last few years. Like most firms we experienced the downturn from 2008 but since 2010 continued, thanks to Business Gateway, to attend more trade shows which have resulted in an increase in turnover of 50%. It is great fun working with creative clients and our worldwide contacts allows us to open doors and organise first class tour experiences," said Graeme. Those experiences include cocktail parties, a day out at Knockhill Racing Circuit; a firework display viewed from Culzean Castle, a private tour of the R&A in St Andrews, and a private tour of the Glenmorangie distillery complete with a personalised bottle of malt. Graeme is a former golf professional but following that worked for a golf travel agency in Spain before using his skills for his own benefit and business. He initially set up shop in Stirling in 1987 but then moved to his current premises in Bridge of Allan in 1998. Married with a thirteen year old daughter, Graeme still enjoys the game and is a member at this year's Ryder Cup venue, Gleneagles. "This year is very exciting for us having the Ryder Cup back in Scotland for the first time since 1973 and for only the second time in its history. We recently took on two new members of staff to help deal with demand and already have bookings for the tournament. We take on casual staff during the summer months and, with the Commonwealth Games and the Year of Homecoming, 2014 is shaping up to be very busy," said Graeme.