The Scottish Chambers of Commerce has appointed an industry leading manufacturing chief as its new president.

Rodney Ayre heads up production across Mitsubishi Electric’s six sites in West Lothian and his appointment reflects a renewed SCC focus on manufacturing, innovation, and the energy sector.

He succeeds Stephen Leckie, chairman and CEO of Crieff Hydro Family Hotels, who steps down from the SCC at the end of the year.

Mr Ayre said: “I hope my extensive production expertise and international experience will provide valuable insight and guidance as we strive to create a stronger manufacturing base and encourage increased investment into Scotland. 

“I look forward to working with the Scottish and UK governments to support investment in innovation, renewable products and our industrial base.”

Mr Ayre is a Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), Past President of Scottish Engineering, former chair of the Japanese Business Council in Europe working group, and a member of the Strategic leadership Group for Manufacturing within the Scottish Government.​

A chartered engineer, he joined Mitsubishi in 1998 after previously working with British Rail on the development of the Heathrow Express Rail link and as a project engineer for the manufacturing of the freight rolling stock in the Channel Tunnel.

Mr Ayre is also chair of Developing the Young Workforce (West Lothian). He said: “Across all industries, particularly manufacturing, there are severe skills shortages and it’s vital we develop the workforce of the future by creating a clear pathway for people to learn new skills and help business thrive in an increasingly competitive world.”

SCC chief executive Liz Cameron said: “Rodney brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership skills with a deep knowledge of the challenges but also the massive opportunities that lie ahead.

“He has been at the forefront of innovation, renewable technologies, and manufacturing. His strategic insight will further strengthen a diverse and dynamic team representing all business sectors.”

Mr Ayre He will be supported by vice presidents Dr Poonam Gupta, founder, and owner of international company PG Group, and Doug Smith, ex Chair of CBRE in Scotland, now a consultant.