British Chambers' director general to deliver keynote at Business Growth Studio conference

British Chambers of Commerce’s director general Shevaun Haviland (pictured) has been announced as the latest keynote speaker at the Business Growth Studio conference, organised by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The conference will help businesses, industry leaders and entrepreneurs to tackle challenges through a day of panel discussions, expert insights and interactive workshops.

It will take place on Tuesday, 13 October at IET Birmingham: Austin Court from 8.45am to 2.15pm.

Shevaun will deliver the first keynote focusing on ‘Growth in the Current Economic Landscape’

This opening keynote will set the scene for the conference, exploring the national and global trends shaping growth opportunities for UK businesses.

From shifting market dynamics to emerging risks and opportunities, attendees can gain a clear, grounded perspective on what lies ahead.

Director general of British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) since April 2021, Shevaun was formerly head of Business Engagement at Number 10 Downing Street and was at the heart of Government in the Cabinet Office as head of the Inclusive Economy Partnership. 

Shevaun started her career in consultancy in London and New York.

She then moved to the Walt Disney Company in strategic planning before joining Disneyland Paris, opening its second theme park.

Shevaun then joined the agency world, running global accounts for Millward Brown, Mindshare and WPP. 

Following this, she started her own business as a partner in a digital innovation agency and venture builder, Independents United, where she also became an Advisor for the Danson Foundation.

Most recently, Shevaun was the New Ventures director for Avado, building new businesses in Edtech and founding the Academy of Digital Business Leaders. 

Shevaun has a passion for business as a force for good and in 2025 was awarded a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for her services to business. 

She was elected to the International Chambers of Commerce’s (ICC) World Chambers Federation Executive Council and General Council as Vice Chair for Europe and is a Board member of ICC UK. 

She is a Trustee of the Women of the World Foundation (WoW) and a Trustee of Barefoot College International, as well as a Venture Partner at the Conduit Connect. 

Shevaun said: “I will outline the challenges and opportunities for SMEs across the UK and how the BCC is working with government to deliver growth through trade, investment, and productivity.

“The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful network of 51 chambers across the UK, representing tens of thousands of firms.”

Access to the full conference is free to all GBCC members, whereas tickets for non-members are priced at £250 plus VAT and tickets for members of the Future Faces Chamber of Commerce are priced at £75 plus VAT.

Visit the website for more information about the conference including sponsorship opportunities.