The Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Board of Directors has confirmed George McKay as its new Chief Executive following a recent recruitment process.

With a wealth of local experience and connections, over the past decade, George has been a member and contributor to Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and Glasgow Chambers gaining valuable insight into the wider Scottish Chambers of Commerce network across Scotland.

George, who lives in Greenock, was most recently Senior Business Development Manager at Red Media in Glasgow previous to which he founded and operated his own successful business, GCM Creative.

With over 30 years of experience, George has worked with a range of clients including Ultimo, Scottish Power, Sports Division and Discover Inverclyde, where George is a former director.

Reflecting on the new appointment, George said: “It is an enormous privilege for me to be appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Chamber. Having lived and worked in Inverclyde throughout my life, I have always been passionate and an advocate for local businesses. I am looking forward to working with our membership and other partners to champion their successes further.

“Make no mistake, this has been one of the most difficult years for our businesses and their employees. It is critical that all local businesses are supported and be provided with advice, support and opportunities to sustain and grow Inverclyde’s economy.

“I look forward to meeting with as many of our members and the wider business community, together with partners to work together taking the Inverclyde Chamber forward. My door will always be open.“

Gavin McDonagh, Inverclyde Chamber president, said: “We are delighted to welcome George to Inverclyde Chamber following an internal review of ICC’s existing structure and the recruitment process.

“Having owned businesses and with experience in the public, private and third sectors, George has fantastic knowledge and a great network of connections.

“George has all the attributes the Board were looking for the new CEO to have and we look forward to working with him to further the aims and growth of the Chamber of Commerce supporting all local businesses.”

Dr. Liz Cameron OBE, CEO of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “This is a great appointment for both Inverclyde and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. George has contributed and been a strong supporter of the Chambers throughout his career. His talent, expertise and experience will ensure that Inverclyde Chamber takes forward its ambitious plans to sustain and grow the business community.

“Inverclyde has tremendous talent and with the Board and Community will ensure the area truly flourishes, creating new jobs, rebuilding the economy for all.”