Scottish Chambers of Commerce appoints new Chief Executive

The Board of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) has appointed Mr Charandeep Singh BEM as its new Chief Executive.

Following a UK-wide recruitment process led by SCC President Rodney Ayre, Mr Singh was the unanimous choice of the SCC Board to take over from Dr Liz Cameron CBE, who is stepping down after 21 years.

He will officially begin as CEO on 1st February 2026, signalling an exciting new era for the national business network and its 12,000 members.

Key priorities for the new CEO will be amplifying the voice of business during the upcoming Scottish Elections; delivering international trade programmes to the USA and India; and working closely with the Scottish Chambers Network to build a strong policy platform to grow Scotland’s vibrant business community.

Rodney Ayre, President of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Charandeep Singh to the prestigious role of Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

“During the rigorous UK-wide recruitment process, we sought a high-calibre leader with the experience and dynamism to propel Scotland’s business community on the national and global stage.

“We were impressed by Charandeep’s vision, innovative thinking, and strategic ambition to strengthen SCC’s role as the voice of business for our 12,000 members.

“This is a role of national significance; Charandeep brings deep insight, commercial experience, and a proven record of delivery for Scotland’s Chamber Network. 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.

“The Board has complete confidence that Charandeep – as a forward-thinking leader – will champion Scottish business in an increasingly competitive global environment. Together, we will ensure that business priorities are firmly embedded at the heart of decision-making at both Holyrood and Westminster.”

Charandeep Singh BEM, incoming Chief Executive, said:

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chief Executive at a defining moment for Scotland’s business community. My top priority is to work in close partnership with our entire Chamber Network to represent our members and create meaningful economic growth opportunities.

“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.“As the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections approach, SCC will offer a clear economic vision to drive innovation and support investment that delivers sustainable, long-term growth across the country. We will engage constructively with governments at all levels to advocate for a competitive business landscape and secure new investment opportunities.

“With our members and partners at the heart of our work, SCC will celebrate enterprise and promote an economy that is resilient, innovative, and open to the world.”

John W.H. Denton AO, 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.

“His knowledge of the International Chamber of Commerce and its World Chambers Federation network and his understanding of the importance of open, rules-based trade will ensure Scottish businesses remain connected to trading opportunities worldwide.

“We look forward to working with him to advance prosperity through global commerce.”

Sarah Medcraf, CEO, Moray Chamber of Commerce, commented:

“I am very pleased to see Charandeep Singh appointed as CEO of SCC. Moray Chamber has worked very closely with SCC to boost Scotland’s regional exports on recent trade missions to USA. I look forward to future collaborations with SCC to take advantage of emerging opportunities and enhance the impact of the Scottish Chambers Network.”

Dr Liz Cameron CBE, outgoing Chief Executive, commented: “I am delighted that Charandeep Singh has been appointed CEO of SCC. He 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. His energy, creativity, and awareness of the challenges and opportunities ahead make him the ideal person to lead SCC. I wish him and the organisation tremendous success.”