The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has announced the appointment of Guy Hinks as its new Scotland chair, with the role officially beginning on 1 April.
A former solicitor who now runs his own photography business, Hinks has served on the FSB’s Scotland Policy Unit since 2021, contributing to its work supporting small businesses during and after the pandemic.
He succeeds Andrew McRae, who is stepping down after seven years leading FSB’s campaigning and policy efforts in Scotland.
Hinks said his focus will be on building a thriving environment for Scotland’s small firms: “Small and micro businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, yet they continue to face significant challenges. Scotland should be a place they can not only survive, but thrive.”
He added: “In the role, I will aim to build on the formidable work of my predecessor Andrew McRae, championing Scotland’s small businesses, and protecting and promoting their interests.”
Tina McKenzie, FSB’s UK policy and advocacy chair, welcomed the appointment and praised McRae’s long service: “Congratulations to Guy on his new appointment and my thanks to outgoing chair Andrew McRae for flying the flag for small businesses in Scotland over the past seven years.”
Reflecting on his tenure, McRae said: “Leading FSB’s campaign work over the last seven years has been eventful to say the least. Covid and its immediate aftermath were some of the most turbulent times in living memory to be running an independent business.”
He added: “Scotland’s small businesses continue to face significant challenges, but we are a creative, dynamic and resilient bunch.” McRae is the founder of several retail ventures, including Museum Context and John Kay’s Shop, and co-founded Elephant House International.