ENTRPRENEUR and SME support body Elevator has appointed a new CEO as Professor Gary McEwan steps down.
After nearly two decades as CEO at Elevator, the Scotland-wide social enterprise which supports anyone looking to start or grow a business, Professor McEwan will step down in March.
The planned transition, which follows Professor McEwan’s desire, after twenty years of success in guiding and growing the organisation, to scale down his business commitments, is part of Elevator’s long-term vision to ensure it continues to grow, innovate, and thrive in its mission to support entrepreneurs across Scotland and beyond.
Professor McEwan will be succeeded by Rachel Ross, who has wide experience as a business owner, non-executive director, and Elevator board member reflecting her passion for working with entrepreneurs, and helping them reach their full potential.
She said: “I am honoured to step into this role at such an exciting time for Elevator.
“Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of a team that we believe creates a profound and lasting impact in the many diverse communities we serve.
“As an SME business owner myself, I fully understand how critical entrepreneurship is to Scotland’s economy.
“Supporting ideas, innovations, and ambitions, while helping SMEs seize transformational growth opportunities, has never been more vital than it is now.
“I am privileged to be leading a team where impact lies at the heart of everything we do.
“It is essential that we continue to work closely with Scottish businesses, supporting new opportunities for collaboration and building on successful partnerships to create a sustainable pipeline to benefit Scotland’s long-term economic development.”
Rachel will be closely supported by Andrew Burnett, as deputy CEO, who has played a vital role in Elevator’s success over many years.
An Elevator spokesperson added: “For more than 20 years, Elevator has been a cornerstone of Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“This is not just a leadership change, but a significant milestone to build on the incredible legacy created by Gary and the entire team.
“Rachel’s vast experience as a business owner, non-executive director, and board member reflects her passion for working with entrepreneurs, helping them reach their full potential.
“Under Rachel’s guidance, Elevator will continue its mission with a strong foundation, clear vision, and unwavering commitment to entrepreneurial success.”
