Scottish Chambers of Commerce boosts board – Daily Business

Travel and tourism chief Jacqueline Dobson steps up from her role as director of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to become vice president, alongside the current VP Doug Smith, a consultant with CBRE.

Liz McAreavey, chief executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, is one of three appointments announced by the SCC in a move that signals closer co-operation between the two organisations.

Also joining the board is Richard Muir, deputy chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.

The announcements follow Charandeep Singh’s appointment as chief executive, succeeding long-serving Liz Cameron.

Mr Ayre said: “Our new vice president and directors bring a wealth of experience from across different sectors. Their strategic insight will further strengthen our talented and dynamic team at a critical time when business confidence is falling to new lows and cost challenges continue to grow.

Ms Dobson said: “I’m honoured and proud to have been asked to become Vice President of SCC, particularly at such a pivotal time for Scotland’s businesses. Decisions being taken by governments in Holyrood and Westminster are having a direct impact on the survival of businesses in communities across Scotland.

“I welcome the opportunity to work closely with the SCC team to press both governments for the support our members need to deliver success both here and on the world stage.

“The SCC also shares my passion for mentorship, and I look forward to helping create more opportunities to inspire a new generation of future business leaders.”

Ms McAreavey has been chief executive of the Edinburgh Chamber since 2016, having been marketing & commercial director and director of operations previously. She was interim chief executive of Essential Edinburgh following a two-year spell as director of business development and market leadership at Ernst & Young.

She said: “I look forward to working alongside my fellow directors to strongly advocate for much-needed government policy changes and investment to protect our struggling businesses and create the platform for growth.”

Mr Muir has been deputy chief executive of the Glasgow Chamber since 2012, overseeing commercial initiatives and working closely with local businesses, government agencies, and community organisations to promote the economic development of the Glasgow city region.

He has led successful trade missions with member companies to cities such as New York, Shanghai, Singapore, Dubai & Bremen. Richard joined GCC as commercial director in 2009, having previously been marketing director for Radio Clyde and Radio Forth.

He said: “With taxation concerns growing and confidence falling, this is a key moment for SCC to ensure that Scottish businesses of all sizes, and across all sectors and regions, have the support needed to overcome these challenges.”