Grant Thornton unveils ‘Faces of a Vibrant Economy’ in Scotland

The sextet are included in the inaugural list of people the international accountant and business adviser feels are helping to shape a vibrant economy in the UK.

Representing Scotland are Josh Littlejohn of Social Bite, West Brewery’s Petra Wetzel, Mark Simmers of Celtic Renewables, Mallzee’s Cally Russell, Marie Owen of LS Productions, and We Are The Future’s Bruce Walker.

Each have been named by Grant Thornton among their ‘Faces of a Vibrant Economy’.

A statement from Grant Thornton said the list has been curated as part of its drive to “shape a vibrant economy, and unlock the shared potential of the nation by working together with government, businesses and communities”.

The faces were photographed by Magnum Photos, the international photography cooperative established by legendary photojournalist Robert Capa, as a celebration of the contribution they are making to a more vibrant economy.

The list showcases individuals who Grant Thornton felt were proven to deliver against at least one of three categories:

Grant Thornton’s Managing Partner in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Andrew Howie, said: “Earlier this year we set out a clear purpose to shape a vibrant economy, and we know that no one organisation or individual can do this alone. Following the result of the EU referendum it is even more important than ever that we all work together to help the UK to build upon its strengths and ensure that our economy continues to grow.

“Today we’re celebrating the achievements of these six Scottish Faces driving a vibrant economy and sharing their stories to inspire others. Some are inspiring leaders, empowering their employees to reach their full potential. Others are using innovation to help their local communities, and some have created businesses with a clear, social purpose.

“We are connecting and convening these inspirational figures to help us unlock the true potential of Scotland. Instead of seeking out the challenges, and focusing on the problems, we believe that by sharing inspiring examples from businesses, government and communities, we can look at how to replicate these across the UK for the good of the economy, and the communities in which we live and serve.”

One of the six Scottish ‘Faces’ is Marie Owen, CEO at Edinburgh-based LS Productions, which focuses on providing production service and shoot locations for advertisers, brands, directors and photographers wishing to shoot in the UK.

She said: “Our shoots create employment as well as highlighting the beauty and diversity of the UK itself. We also encourage people to get involved in the creative industries from a young age, giving them confidence that the creative industry is a career option. Entrepreneurialism should be encouraged and supported. It takes businesses like ours to take a chance to succeed as a new business. We should celebrate those – like ourselves – who take a chance and set an example to others that you can take a stand and achieve your dream.”