Lord Sugar’s Adviser to Headline Ayrshire Chamber Annual Dinner

A star of BBC’s The Apprentice will swap the boardroom for the ballroom when he visits Ayrshire next year for one of the region’s most prestigious business events.

Mike Soutar, best known as one of Lord Sugar’s trusted advisers who grills candidates during the hit show’s interview stage, will be the guest speaker at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner.

The event, set to take place at Trump Turnberry Resort on Friday, March 27, will bring together up to 500 business leaders and guests for an evening of networking and celebration.

A respected entrepreneur and business strategist, Soutar co-founded Shortlist Media, served as CEO of The Evening Standard, and has advised high-growth businesses across fintech, data, contemporary art and social media. He was the first inductee into the Professional Publishers Association (PPA) Scotland Hall of Fame in 2024 and was appointed to the UK Government’s Board of Trade in 2025.

Chamber CEO Claire Baird said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mike as our guest speaker. His passion for mentoring emerging leaders and his vast experience across multiple sectors make him an inspiring figure. His ability to share strategic insights through powerful storytelling will no doubt resonate with our audience.”

The Annual Dinner’s principal sponsor for 2026 is Dash Claims, an independent UK-based accident claims management service.

Company director Sandy Hillan said: “The Chamber plays a fantastic role in championing local enterprise, encouraging collaboration and creating opportunities for businesses of all sizes. We’re delighted to support this flagship event, which celebrates success and brings together the people who are shaping the future of business in our region.”

The event is also supported by event partner Scape Scotland, a public sector framework provider focused on creating efficiency and social impact through the built environment.

During the evening, the Chamber will announce the 2026 winner of the Business Excellence Award, which recognises Ayrshire organisations committed to continuous improvement. Previous winners include Donnini Apartments, Break the Silence, Begg x Co, Woodward AES Prestwick and Browning the Bakers.

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting dmcpherson@ayrshire-chamber.org. For more information or to book tickets, visit the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry website.