Leadership with a View: Borders Business Leaders Gather at Duns Castle

On Tuesday 24th June, the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce hosted its third Leadership Forum Dinner, an evening that has quickly become a cornerstone in the region’s business calendar and once again delivered an inspiring and impactful gathering of minds.

Held within the spectacular surroundings of Duns Castle Estate, the evening brought together senior figures from across the Borders business and civic landscape, with guests including leaders from Scottish Borders Council, South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), Borders Community Action, and key organisations from a wide range of sectors. The event created space for meaningful conversation, collaborative thinking, and the strengthening of vital relationships across the region.

Throughout the evening, guests explored shared priorities such as innovation, place-based growth, investment, and future skills, all while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

As hosts for the evening, Mr & Mrs Hay of Duns Castle Estate reflected on the value of the occasion: “In bringing together stakeholders in our Borders area in a relaxed setting, the exchange was informative and frank, enlightening each other about the challenges in each of our work. Certain themes were common to all, leading us to see scope for a united front to solve problems such as restricted transport, housing, parking, and training of skills for the workplace.”

“Events like these are more than just dinners, they’re a platform for possibility,” said Trevor Jackson, Chair of the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce. “It’s clear that leaders across the Borders are ready to take on challenges together and equally committed to finding shared solutions. The Chamber is proud to be providing space for those conversations to grow.”

That sentiment was echoed by attendees. “The Leadership Forum Dinner was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders and share valuable insights and experiences in an open, encouraging, and truly collaborative environment. The genuine quality of conversation really stood out for me,” said Lee-Anne Gillie, Owner and Director of Balance Point.

Jane Morrison-Ross, CEO of South of Scotland Enterprise, reflected: “Having the opportunity, time and space to have open dialogue, constructive discussion, and a safe space for really examining the challenges and opportunities we share is rare. The Chamber’s Leadership Forum Dinners offer that and more. There is so much value in exploring these topics with a really diverse group of experts, leaders and innovators and the Chamber does this with great thought and skill.”

Fuelled by a beautifully prepared dinner from the exceptional team at Clint Lodge, whose professionalism and service elevated the experience, the evening offered a moment of pause, reflection, and renewal for many of those in attendance.

Roz Haughey, Engagement Manager at the Chamber, reflected on the gathering: “We’re so proud of the momentum building around these Leadership Dinners. They’re a chance to celebrate what makes our business community special while also looking ahead with fresh focus and intention. The vision, voice, and visibility of the Borders is rising, and we’re excited to keep driving that forward.”

With the Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards on the horizon this August and entries already in full swing, the Chamber is setting a confident tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead for the region.