We are delighted to share that Claire Bruce, Co-Chief Executive of Glen Tanar Estate, has been awarded an MBE in the King's New Year Honours List, recognising her outstanding contribution to tourism in the North East of Scotland.
This national honour reflects more than two decades of leadership, advocacy and commitment to shaping a tourism sector rooted in place, partnership and long-term sustainability.
Throughout her career, Claire has been a strong advocate for place-based tourism; championing communities and businesses working together to create meaningful, lasting impact. Her work has helped raise the profile of the North East as a destination, while ensuring growth is grounded in quality, care and local benefit.
Alongside her role at Glen Tanar, Claire has played a significant leadership role across the region’s tourism sector, including seven years as Chair of VisitAberdeenshire.
At Glen Tanar Estate, Claire’s leadership reflects a belief that tourism and land stewardship go hand in hand. From sustainable land management and nature restoration to welcoming visitors into a working estate, her approach continues to shape Glen Tanar as a place where people, nature and enterprise coexist.
This recognition celebrates not only professional achievement, but a values-led approach to leadership — one that places care for landscape, community and future generations at its heart.
We are incredibly proud of Claire and this well-deserved honour. Her MBE recognises sustained impact, thoughtful leadership and a lifelong commitment to the places she cares about deeply.
Congratulations, Claire — and thank you for everything you continue to bring to Glen Tanar and to Scottish tourism.
The Glen Tanar Team.