Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Gary Gruber: I have a fairly busy family life with two very active children, a wonderful wife and a dog so I’m usually caught up in the chaos of family when I’m away from work.
What’s one thing you do after the workday to help you unwind?
As the initial stages of my career were in golf course maintenance, I always enjoy cutting the lawn with the headphones in. It reminds me of those early days! There is also a great pub in the town I live in, so a quick pint after a particularly stressful day is another option.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
I have played golf all my life and as my son gets older he is starting to play more and more. I enjoy playing with him regularly, though this can often be more stressful than work!
What’s something you’ve read, listened to, or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
I always return to Legacy by James Kerr on what the All Blacks can teach us about the business of life.
After home and the office, where’s your favourite ‘third space’?
On the golf course, specifically on Brora, or the aforementioned pub in the town I live in!
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
As the club operates twenty-four seven, the week never stops. Though I don’t often work full days at the weekend, I like to come in early at the weekend and ensure I’m well placed for a fast start to Monday – I usually start around 6am. It’s the best time of the day!
Best reason you've had to turn your out of office on recently?
We recently went to New York and as we live in the Highlands of Scotland, it was like another world to my kids. I loved seeing them take it all in.
Your go-to out of office outfit: Shorts – I’m in a jacket and tie all week!
Your happy place anywhere in the world: Elie in Fife.
Your favourite bar or restaurant: I enjoy sitting on the outside terrace of The Ship Inn at Elie watching beach cricket with locally caught fish and chips.
Something cultural or sporting you booked recently that you'd recommend: Brooklyn Nets at The Barclay Centre was a brilliant all-round experience.
Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: The Chipping Forecast with Andrew Cotter.
A hobby you'd like to cultivate: Playing the bagpipes.
A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Apple AirPods
Best luxury under £25: Not quite under £25, but close is my AirTag. It has come in very useful of late in helping me locate my keys!
