CEO Update - April 2026

CEO Update – Champion Business

As we move into Quarter Two 2026, I would like to thank our members for your continued engagement and support, particularly through your participation at our many events. Your involvement plays a crucial role in helping us represent, connect and champion the interests of businesses across our membership.

Our Strategy and Investment in Services

Over the past year, we have refreshed our strategy to ensure it is sharply focused on delivering value in a rapidly changing economic and political landscape. Our priorities are clear: stronger business influence, deeper engagement with policymakers, high‑quality insight and intelligence, and impactful opportunities for members to connect, grow and be heard.

To support this ambition, we continue to invest in our policy capability, events and networks, and the services that directly support your businesses. Each year, we carefully review our cost base to ensure we are delivering services as effectively as possible. This year, we have made a small upward adjustment to our subscription fees, which will be reflected in our next round of invoicing. This decision was not taken lightly, but it reflects the rising cost of delivery and our commitment to maintaining – and enhancing – the quality, reach and impact of what we provide to members.

We are also pleased to advise that we are exploring closer working with Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber over the coming months. Once these discussions are finalised, we will communicate further details with our membership. This partnership is expected to present an exciting opportunity to enhance our services across a wider network of like‑minded businesses, and we are looking forward to progressing this work.

The Scottish Election and Business Priorities

With the Scottish election fast approaching, there is an increasing focus on what a new Scottish Government can do to support economic growth, productivity and competitiveness across the country. I have been in regular discussions with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and fellow Chamber Chief Executives to align on the key priorities businesses want to see addressed.

Common themes are emerging from these conversations, including the need for a stable and competitive business environment, improved skills and workforce availability, investment in infrastructure, support for innovation, and ensuring Scotland remains an attractive place to invest and do business.

Hustings and Political Engagement

Engagement with all major political parties remains a core part of our role as the voice of business. I will be attending two Hustings over the coming week, providing further opportunities to put business priorities directly to political leaders and candidates.

In addition, Paul Sykes, Membership Executive, recently represented the Chamber at a Hustings with the leaders of the main Scottish parties, hosted at the RBS Gogarburn site. These engagements are vital in ensuring the needs and concerns of our members are heard at the highest levels, regardless of the election outcome. As always, our approach remains constructive, independent and focused on outcomes. We will continue to work with whichever government is elected to ensure business has a strong voice in shaping Scotland’s future.

Thank you for your ongoing support and for the role you play. I look forward to continuing our work together over the months ahead.