A prominent businessman whose passion for Aberdeen has played a critical part in reenergising the city has been recognised for his inspirational leadership.
Allan Henderson, Managing Director of The McGinty’s Group, has been named as Place Leader of the Year in the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards.
He recently stepped down as chair of Aberdeen Inspired Business Improvement District after dedicating just shy of a decade to the key city centre role.
Judges named him as the winner after hearing of his “unwavering commitment”, not only to his own substantial business interests, but to the city and wider region.
Mr Henderson described the accolade as “a great achievement for Aberdeen Inspired”.
He said: “This is an award that could be attributed to the whole of our board. It’s real recognition of the efforts we’ve made to bring events to the city, encourage people into the city centre and do everything that we can to promote Aberdeen as a venue.”
Under his leadership, Aberdeen Inspired has been a key strategic partner in the delivery of the Aberdeen City Centre Masterplan, which has already seen the Union Terrace Gardens, Aberdeen Music Hall and Aberdeen Art Gallery revamped.
Mr Henderson also played an integral part in globally-renowned events to Aberdeen, not least Nuart street art festival and the return of the Tall Ships, which drew almost half a million visitors to the city this summer – as well Aberdeen Restaurant Week, credited with injecting £1m-a-year into the city’s economy. He was also instrumental in the formation of Our Union Street and its work to reenergise the critical area.
On top of this, Aberdeen is home to the UK’s most successful local gift card, generating sales of more than £4.5m with businesses based in the city since 2020.
Speaking about his pride in the city, Mr Henderson said: “I’m like a stick of rock. If you cut me through, I’ll say Aberdeen.
“I really feel that for people who’ve been successful in the city, to give a little something back is the least we can do.
“When you see the work that’s taking place in the city, it will be a brighter and better place to visit and spend time in. The events we have brought to the city have made a difference.”
Paying tribute to the former chair’s contribution to city life, Aberdeen Inspired Chief Executive Adrian Watson said: “Allan is a force of nature – a passionate Aberdonian.
“He has led us to become a national leader UK-wide with some of the initiatives and strategies we have. He has been a truly inspirational figure and a real leader. I am so pleased for him that he has won this award.”
STP Chief Officer Kimberley Guthrie Visited Allan at The Silver Darling at Pocra Quay – part of The McGinty’s Group portfolio – to celebrate his success.
She said: “Allan’s passion for Aberdeen shines through in everything that he does. He has a fantastic way of engaging people, motivating them and getting things done.
“He gives up a remarkable amount of time to help make life better in the city and Aberdeen Inspired has gone from strength to strength on his watch, showing organisations up and down the country what can be done through innovation, creativity and collaboration.
“Allan is hugely deserving of the place leader award and reflects everything we look for in genuine leadership to better places and people. We need an Alan – and his passion – in all of our places.”
Spearheaded by STP and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local is the movement encouraging people to create a better future for their community by choosing local. This is the fifth year in which the awards have been held.
