TOP Scottish business figures are to join the board of the country’s Chambers of Commerce.

The newly-appointed directors are Stuart Cresswell of ABP Ports, Poonam Gupta OBE of PG Paper Ltd, Colin Loveday of 4G Mobile and Val Russell of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Commenting on the appointments of the new Directors, Tim Allan, president of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), said: “I am delighted to welcome such dynamic and talented business figures to the Board of Scottish Chambers of Commerce. Poonam, Stuart, Colin and Val have exceptional business acumen, strategic vision and leadership that will enable the Scottish Chambers Network to rise to the challenge of driving the Scottish economy forward.

“The Board will continue to focus on its business growth priorities including, the acceleration of plans to rapidly expand the ability of Scottish businesses to export, tackling the stubborn challenge of skills shortages in key sectors and creating a business-friendly environment for doing business in Scotland.

“Serving leadership roles on the board of a national body like SCC is vitally important, while demanding and rewarding.”

Cresswell said: “I am thrilled to join the board of Scottish Chambers of Commerce at such a pivotal moment for businesses in Scotland.”

Gupta said: “I am honoured to join the Board of Scottish Chambers of Commerce. The work of SCC, both domestically and internationally is exceptional and I look forward to playing an active role in shaping and driving the growth agenda for Scottish businesses.”

Loveday said: “There has never been a more important time for businesses to be a part of the Chamber movement. As a member myself, I know the benefits of the Chamber Network first-hand, and I look forward to joining the board of SCC and actively engaging and supporting business growth in Scotland.”

Russell said: “There is a real spirit of dynamism and entrepreneurialism across the worldwide Chambers of Commerce Network as we take on the big challenges and opportunities facing our economies. SCC plays a critical role in amplifying the voice of the business community.”