Allan is a farmer with a wealth of experience in equestrianism having competed, shown horses and hunted.

During his career, Allan has gained extensive experience of business, being on committees of a variety of different organisations and holding a number of positions. Whilst working both within the charity sector and NFUS, Allan gained a valuable understanding of governance issues. He first became involved in politics in 1992 whilst representing the NFUS in the arable sector lobbying the Westminster and European governments. He continued his political work during his career with the Scottish Countryside Alliance and still does some consultancy work for them.