Gillian completed her initial training as a Veterinary Nurse at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh  and qualified from Berkshire College of Agriculture in 1988.
After working in practice for several years, she decided to return to study at Queen Margaret University College in Edinburgh and was awarded a BSc in 1995.
Gillian worked for several veterinary companies, where her interest in the management of veterinary practice began. From 1997-2000 she lectured in Veterinary Nursing and took up the position of Centre Manager with The College of Animal Welfare in 2000. During this time, she was involved in the setting up of Scotland's first Degree in Veterinary Nursing between The College of Animal Welfare and Napier University.
Gillian and Tony set up the original 'Burnhouse Veterinary Centre' together in 1999 and although she continued to work elsewhere, was still very much involved in the building of the practice. In 2001 she joined Ayrton (Burnhouse) as a  full-time Business Manager & Partner.
Gillian recently obtained the European School of Veterinary Post Graduate Studies (ESPVS) Certificate in Business Management and Professional studies.
Outside of work she likes to travel, listen to music, watch film and follow Formula 1