Charandeep Singh steps up as Chambers CEO – Daily Business

Charandeep Singh has been promoted to chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, replacing long-serving Liz Cameron who is retiring.

Following a UK-wide recruitment process led by SCC president Rodney Ayre, Mr Singh, currently deputy chief executive, was the unanimous choice of the board.

He will take on the leadership of the 12,000-member organisation on 1 February and will be plunged directly into the heat of the Scottish election campaign.

During his 12 years at SCC, he has developed expertise in economic policy, international trade and skills development.

In addition to his professional role, he was recognised by Queen Elizabeth II in the 2020 New Year Honours with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to charity and community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He holds board level positions at the City of Glasgow College, Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow and the Law Society of Scotland.

Mr Ayre said: “We were impressed by Charandeep’s vision, innovative thinking, and strategic ambition to strengthen SCC’s role.

“His ability to unite the private sector with government and international partners will enable SCC to play an influential role in shaping Scotland’s economic future.”

Mr Singh said: “My ambition is to place Scotland at the forefront of global trade, harness digital transformation, and build a future-ready workforce. By fostering the right environment for start-ups, scale-ups, and established businesses, we can enhance competitiveness and deepen trade connections on the world stage.”

John W H Denton, Secretary-General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), added: “Charandeep’s appointment is a strong signal of Scottish Chambers of Commerce’s commitment to global trade and the vital role chambers play in shaping the international economy.”

Dr Cameron, who steps down after 21 years in the role, said Mr Singh “has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and passion in dealing with some of the most challenging issues of our age.

“From the Scottish Independence Referendum to Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic, he has been a formidable advocate for Scotland’s hard-working entrepreneurs and businesses.”