President of IAAS, Alan Hutcheon. “I know from the wonderful experience this industry has given me how rewarding it can be. It’s full of opportunity"
Five young auctioneers have gained professional recognition from the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS) as the organisation marks its centenary year.
Fellowships
Three auctioneers from ANM Group, Gemma Duguid, Andrew Gunn and Fraser Chapman, were awarded Fellowship of the Institute (FIA Scot) after completing a Certificate of Higher Education in Livestock Market Operations and Management at Harper Adams University.
They graduated in January 2026 and were also recognised at the recent IAAS centenary dinner in Edinburgh.
The Fellowship follows four years of study undertaken alongside their day-to-day roles in livestock markets. IAAS said the qualification demonstrated full commitment to the profession and provided the credibility and authority to undertake more demanding areas of auctioneering and valuation practice.
Neil Wilson, executive director of IAAS, said the Institute was pleased to offer a professional pathway for young auctioneers committing to a career in the industry.
He said: "Fellowship is hard won and demonstrates a full commitment to the profession, offering credibility and the authority to undertake more demanding areas of auctioneering and valuation practice. This valuable expertise and experience are core to the success of our sector."
Gemma Duguid was also named top Scottish student and received the M J Thomson Award.
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Associateships
In addition to the Fellowships, Lucy Pittendrigh, of Lawrie and Symington, and John McCulloch, of Wallets Marts, were awarded Associateship of the Institute. Associateship is granted to second-year students who have completed a foundation level of studies at Harper Adams and demonstrated competence to undertake the full role of an auctioneer.
Anders Brown, of Harrison and Hetherington, who has completed his first year of the course, received the Dick Harrison Trust Plaque, jointly awarded to the top first-year student.
IAAS' centenary year
IAAS was formed in 1926 following a collapse in livestock prices after the First World War, when mart businesses sought greater co-operation and a collective voice to represent their interests and promote the auction system.
The Institute was registered with the Board of Trade in the same year and has since represented marts through periods of significant challenge, including BSE, foot-and-mouth and Covid.
As it celebrates 100 years in 2026, IAAS said continuing professional development and formal qualifications remain central to strengthening member marts and maintaining confidence in the auction system.
Alan Hutcheon, president of IAAS, congratulated those who had qualified and wished them success in their careers. He said the industry was rewarding, offered opportunity, and played a vital role in the rural economy and the red meat supply chain.
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