Many colleagues may disagree but I believe I have the best job in Historic Scotland. As Marketing Executive for Stirling Castle I not only get office space in one of the nation’s most beautiful and historic sites, but every day I get to meet fabulous people from all walks of life and work on interesting and rewarding projects.

There is no such thing as a typical day, week or month. Today I might oversee a photographic shoot, tomorrow I could be working on website content or meeting a local business partner.  My remit is expansive and variety is a big part of my role and, indeed, what attracted me to a marketing career in the first place.

Film shoots at the castle are always interesting but they are ultimately very good fun.  This year we made our own TV ad here with Hamish Clark and also hosted filming for the John Landis-directed Burke & Hare with Simon Pegg and Andy Serkis.  The castle was completely transformed into a 19th-century market place. The smells and sounds, like a roaring fire or horses hoofs clattering over cobbles, transport you to a different era and suddenly it’s not so hard to imagine what like was like for people here hundreds of years ago. It’s a unique experience. But as the adage says working with children and animals is never easy!

Since joining the team just over a year ago I have met more celebrities than grace the pages of OK magazine, won several awards and had access to some incredible places in our estate. However, the most rewarding aspect of the job is being part of an amazing team, working together to provide each and every visitor with a world-class experience and unforgettable memories to take home, whether they’re just down the road or from some far-flung corner of the world.

I might be exhausted by the end of the day but I never tire of my job or the sight of Stirling Castle as I approach the esplanade every morning wondering what adventures await me today.

By Nicola McCrae, Stirling Castle Marketing Executive.