Sandy Begbie CBE FRSE
Chief Executive, Scottish Financial Enterprise

Sandy Begbie CBE FRSE
Chief Executive, Scottish Financial Enterprise

Sandy Begbie CBE FRSE is one of Scotland’s most influential business leaders, with a career defined by transformation, vision, and a deep commitment to social and economic progress. As Chief Executive of Scottish Financial Enterprise (SFE), Sandy leads Scotland’s financial and professional services industry—one of the nation’s most important economic sectors—at a time of unprecedented opportunity in responsible investment, fintech, and the transition to net zero.

Prior to joining SFE, Sandy held senior executive roles at several major institutions, including Chief People Officer at Standard Life Aberdeen, where he led the complex integration of global teams during the merger of two FTSE 100 firms. He was also instrumental in reshaping Tesco Bank’s operating model and led Aegon UK’s transformation programme, significantly improving performance, culture, and customer focus.

Sandy’s achievements extend far beyond the boardroom. In 2020, he was appointed by the Scottish Government to design and implement the Young Person’s Guarantee—a landmark initiative ensuring every young person in Scotland has access to work, education, or training. The programme has been widely recognised as a model for inclusive economic recovery and youth employment.

Under Sandy’s leadership, SFE has launched a bold strategy for growth, strengthening the sector’s voice on the global stage while championing innovation, sustainability, and skills development at home. He has fostered deep collaboration between industry, government, and academia to accelerate Scotland’s role as a destination for high-impact investment.

A Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Sandy is a passionate advocate for social mobility, economic inclusion, and the power of business to deliver long-term societal value.