Speaking to over 650 business leaders and policymakers in Glasgow, SCC president Rodney Ayre and outgoing chief executive Dr Liz Cameron CBE outlined the SCC’s “Business Plan for Scotland”. Set to launch formally in early 2026 ahead of the Holyrood elections, the strategy proposes a vision through to 2050 focused on tackling skills shortages, resilient infrastructure, digital adoption, and global competitiveness.

Mr Ayre said: “Our Business Plan is about the future Scotland needs: not one paralysed by the past or poleaxed by politics, but one where our policymakers take strategic, lasting decisions that deliver sustainable economic growth, wealth, and jobs.

“The choices our politicians make are not abstract: they shape confidence across boardrooms, shopfloors, and communities. That’s why our Business Plan for Scotland makes the case for practical, evidence-led decision-making that will pay dividends for decades to come.”

The SCC president emphasised Scotland’s economic trajectory over the next 25 years must be defined by evidence-led decision-making and a renewed focus on competitiveness.

In her final annual business address as chief executive, Dr Cameron said: “Scotland stands at a crossroads. The choice ahead is not political. It is generational. Do we settle, or do we show ambition and leadership?”

The SCC chief called for business and government to work together to unlock Scotland’s economic potential, warning that without decisive action on skills, digital capacity, and global competitiveness, Scotland risks falling behind its international peers.

She said decisions taken by government must be made in partnership with business, emphasising the need for cross-sector leadership.

Her address also marked a significant moment of reflection as Dr Cameron looked back on over two decades as the voice of Scottish business.

Dr Cameron said: “Looking back on my 21 years at the helm of SCC, I am deeply proud of what we have achieved together amid seismic political and economic change.

“Leadership is not about titles or strategy: it is about integrity, collaboration, and resilience. My role has always been to ensure that Scotland’s business voice is heard where it matters most: at Holyrood, at Westminster, and on the global stage.”

Dr Cameron’s remarks underscored why businesses are looking for clarity, stability, and long-term leadership from government.