Dr Liz Cameron CBE is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most respected, influential and leading voices for business.

She has led SCC through two decades of seismic change: from the establishment of Scotland’s devolved Parliament, numerous Parliamentary elections, Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her integrity, passion and professionalism has helped forge strong relationships with First Ministers and Prime Ministers to ensure the current and future needs of Scottish business were at the heart of government policymaking.

Dr Cameron’s future focussed and solutions-driven work with stakeholders across both the public and private sector has overseen growth of the SCC brand domestically and internationally.

She has championed overseas trade, advocated business priorities at both Holyrood and Westminster, and firmly embedded Chambers as critical partners in shaping national economic policy, trade strategy, investment, innovation and business growth.

Her legacy was hailed by SCC President Rodney Ayre. He said: “Liz has led with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to shaping and strengthening the Scottish business environment.

“Under her direction, SCC has grown in both influence and impact, launching innovative business support programmes, expanding business alliances and promoting the high-quality of Scotland’s businesses both at home and abroad.”

Mr Ayre continued: “From the outset, Liz set up SCC Ltd as a separate business enabling the commercialisation of services to support Scotland’s business community.

“Her unique ability to bring together diverse stakeholders and advocate effectively on behalf of business, whilst navigating complex challenges, including pivotal moments such as Brexit, the pandemic and the uncertain economic instability worldwide, demonstrate Liz’s outstanding leadership and resilience.

“She has been an integral part of Scotland’s business success story over the last two decades and, in the months ahead, Liz and the SCC team will continue to champion Scottish business and ensure our politicians are fully aware of the growing pressures we face and the business environment we need to create jobs and grow the economy.”

Reflecting on her tenure, Dr Cameron CBE said: “I’ve loved being part of an organisation that believes in the power of business to transform lives and communities.

“Promoting and selling our brilliant businesses, here and on the international stage has been a privilege and I have been so fortunate to be surrounded over the years by dynamic boards and talented management teams, supported by a vibrant chamber network fully committed to supporting growth, innovation and investment.

“SCC is a powerful voice for business, future-ready for the challenges ahead, and I’m honoured to have built that strong foundation.

“We would not have been as successful without proactive partnerships and I’m particularly proud to have brought together the private and public sectors to positively impact business and the economy.

“And, of course, it has been both entertaining, if a tad tricky at times, diplomatically working with political parties to help them understand what business needs.

“After 21 years, I’m stepping into new opportunities, building on past successes by supporting businesses with passion, insight, and a global, cross-sector perspective to drive positive impact.”

Dr Cameron will be involved in the SCC Board’s recruitment process for her successor and remain in post to oversee the effective leadership transition.