In conversation with Fiona MacLeod

In this month’s In Conversation With, we caught up with Partner Fiona MacLeod to learn more about her work as our Rural Team Lead, and the diversity that comes with this demanding role. Based in our office in Elgin, Fiona’s schedule takes her on the road across the beautiful Morayshire countryside, and, outside of work, she enjoys exploring more remote parts of the country whenever she can.

Fiona also shares a few of her favourite local businesses, while her dream home also stays local with a much-admired coastal location.

Firstly, can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at Paton & Co? 

As a Partner, Chartered Rural Surveyor and Rural Team Lead at Paton & Co, my role is incredibly varied. With specialist expertise in natural capital and as a Registered Valuer, no two days are the same. One day I might be overseeing estate and fishings management, the next I could be out on site carrying out a rural valuation, before ending the week visiting a wind farm.

I specialise in advising on environmental and habitat management plans for a wide range of commercial developments, including wind farms, battery storage, and infrastructure projects. With the support of our rural team, I lead on natural capital projects for our clients, helping them navigate emerging markets, identify new opportunities, and maximise the value of their natural assets while ensuring we remain at the forefront of this evolving sector.

In my spare time I like to travel to remote parts of Scotland, with my Westie, exploring the countryside after spending several years living abroad.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I like that my work involves improving the natural environment and contributing to projects often sustaining the rural community. It’s an added bonus that I am often out in the beautiful countryside, often off the beaten tracks. Also, when undertaking valuations, we often see some spectacular properties!

What’s your favourite place to escape to or explore when not working?

One of my favourite places is Roseisle beach. We used to visit there on trips with Cawdor Sunday school so it holds a special place in my heart.

Can you tell us some of your favourite local businesses?

A good food stop usually dictates my dog walking routes – a couple of particular favourites include the Strathnairn Cafe at Nairn beach, and I can’t go east without a stop at Portsoy Ice Cream shop.

What are you enjoying reading, watching, or listening to at the moment?

I’m a true crime enthusiast so all of my podcasts, documentaries and audiobooks are often quite dark!

If you were to describe your dream home what would it look like?

I would love a cute little stone-built cottage by the sea – Findhorn would be the dream.

What are you most looking forward to work wise over the next few months?

I’m looking forward to welcoming our new recruits to the rural team, watching them build strong client relationships, and seeing them grow into confident, valued members of the team.

Contact Fiona MacLeod