The Federation of Small Businesses has appointed Guy Hinks to lead its policy and campaign work in Scotland.

Mr Hinks, a photographer and former solicitor, will take over as FSB Scotland’s chair from 1 April).

He succeeds independent retailer Andrew McRae who is stepping down after seven years. 

Mr Hinks has been a member of FSB’s Scotland Policy Unit since 2021, helping inform its support for small businesses through the Covid pandemic and its aftermath.  

Mr McRae said: “Leading FSB’s campaign work over the last seven years has been eventful to say the least. The Covid pandemic and its immediate aftermath in were some of the most turbulent times in living memory to be running an independent business. 

“I would like to take this chance to pay tribute to the work of the wider FSB team who provided magnificent support to our members throughout the crisis. 

“Scotland’s small businesses continue to face significant challenges, but we are a creative, dynamic and resilient bunch.   

“It has been a privilege to represent Scotland’s small business community for so long, and I know we will find a worthy champion in my successor Guy Hinks.”     

Mr Hinks worked in civil and criminal law in the west of Scotland before switching careers in 2008 to establish his photography business.