Stewart Nicol, Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, has announced that he will leave the role he has held for almost 15 years at next May’s Highland Business Dinner.

Stewart said of his decision: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the business community in Inverness and across the Highlands and Islands.  

“I look forward to the next phase of life, in particular utilising my non-executive director experience and the charity trustee roles I have held for some significant time.  I will also enjoy having more time to devote to my family.”

Stewart continued: “I reflect with a real sense of accomplishment all that I have achieved as the first full-time Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce.

“The organisation has been transformed from a modest entity into a dynamic, resilient business which, as the strong voice of business in Inverness and the Highlands, is dedicated to actively connecting and representing businesses across the Highlands to support their growth.”

“In addition to transforming the services we offer business, I’m particularly proud of the colleagues I have worked with and the team we have built over many years.  I’m looking forward to supporting the Board to find a successor and working with the team to ensure a smooth handover.”

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Cameron paid tribute.

“Stewart has been a tireless and effective advocate for not only the Inverness business community but the wider Highlands & Islands region.

“He leaves the chamber with an exceptionally strong legacy, particularly in building the chamber’s capacity to identify and secure vital exporting opportunities.

“The Scottish Chambers Network wishes Stewart all the best in his next chapter and we look forward to continuing to support the growth of Inverness Chamber of Commerce.”