Shevaun Haviland: A Visionary Leader in British Business and Policy
Shevaun Haviland is a well-recognised name in British business and government circles. Best known as the Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) since 2021, she has built a career that seamlessly bridges the corporate sector, government service, and social impact initiatives. Her journey illustrates how leadership, innovation, and collaboration can shape the economy and improve society.
In this article, we will explore her background, education, career milestones, affiliations, and personal details. We will also touch on related searches such as Shevaun Haviland Wikipedia, Is Shevaun Haviland married, Shevaun Haviland age, and information about her husband.
Early Life and Education
Academic Background
Shevaun Haviland was born in January 1972, which makes her 53 years old as of 2025. She pursued her studies at the City of London Freemen’s School before going on to study Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at the University of Oxford, where she graduated with a Master of Arts degree.
This academic grounding provided her with analytical skills and a strong understanding of economics, politics, and philosophy – a combination that has become a hallmark of leaders in both public and private sectors.
Professional Journey
Early Career in Business and Consultancy
Shevaun Haviland began her professional journey as a consultant at Datamonitor, where she gained insight into market analysis and strategic consultancy. She later moved to The Walt Disney Company, taking up the role of Head of Strategic Planning.
Her Disney career included significant achievements such as launching the second theme park at Disneyland Paris and heading Planning and Consumer Knowledge. These experiences honed her skills in strategic management, consumer insights, and large-scale operations.
She then took on the role of Global Account Director at Millward Brown, a global research and consultancy firm, working with top brands and sharpening her leadership in marketing and consumer engagement.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
In 2008, Haviland co-founded Independents United, a digital innovation and strategy agency. Over four years, she and her team worked with both start-ups and global corporations, helping them accelerate growth through rapid product development and marketing innovation.
Her entrepreneurial journey continued as she became New Ventures Director at Avado, an EdTech business. There she founded the Academy of Digital Business Leaders, which was designed to help organisations navigate digital transformation.
In parallel, she was actively involved in impact investment, serving as an investor at ClearlySo, a firm connecting social entrepreneurs with investors. She also acted as an Investor Director at Insane Logic, creators of the language development platform MyChoicePad.
Government Roles
Cabinet Office
In 2016, Shevaun Haviland entered government service. She was appointed Deputy Director of Business Partnerships at the Cabinet Office, where she later became Head of the Inclusive Economy Partnership.
This initiative aimed to unite government, business, and civil society organisations to create inclusive solutions and address societal challenges. Under her leadership, partnerships flourished between corporations and social entrepreneurs to deliver impactful programmes across the UK.
10 Downing Street
Between 2017 and 2019, Haviland also served as Head of Business Engagement at 10 Downing Street. In this role, she was responsible for fostering dialogue between government and the business community. Her ability to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors positioned her as a respected figure in policymaking.
British Chambers of Commerce
Director General
In April 2021, Shevaun Haviland was appointed Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). The BCC is one of the UK’s most influential business organisations, representing thousands of firms of all sizes and sectors.
At the BCC, she has been a vocal advocate for businesses facing challenges such as Brexit transitions, the Covid-19 pandemic recovery, inflation, and skills shortages. She has urged government not to burden businesses with further taxation and has consistently highlighted the need for investment in skills, training, and workforce development.
Her leadership style emphasises collaboration, innovation, and resilience. By focusing on “skills, skills, skills”, she has pushed for closing the UK’s talent gap and ensuring British businesses remain globally competitive.
ICC United Kingdom and Other Affiliations
Since June 2023, Shevaun Haviland has also served as a Board Member of ICC United Kingdom, part of the International Chamber of Commerce. Her role involves shaping policy at both national and international levels, supporting global trade, and promoting responsible business practices.
Beyond this, she has held trustee and advisory positions with organisations such as the Women of the World Foundation (WoW), Barefoot College International, and the Danson Foundation. She has also been a Venture Partner at Conduit Connect, an impact investment network.
Recognition and Achievements
In 2025, Shevaun Haviland was recognised with the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her services to business. This honour reflects her impact on strengthening UK business networks, promoting social inclusion, and influencing national economic policy.
Her reputation as a thought leader has also led to invitations to major conferences, including London Tech Week and the BCC Global Annual Conference. She continues to be a strong voice for business resilience and innovation.
Personal Life
Is Shevaun Haviland Married?
Yes, Shevaun Haviland is married. During interviews, she has mentioned living in Chiswick, London, with her husband and two teenage sons. While she tends to keep her family life private, it is clear that she balances her demanding professional responsibilities with her role as a mother and spouse.
Age
As noted earlier, Shevaun Haviland was born in January 1972. That places her at 53 years old in 2025.
Husband
While her husband’s name and profession have not been made public, she has referenced him in interviews, particularly during discussions about how families managed the pandemic period.
Shevaun Haviland Wikipedia
Although there is no dedicated Shevaun Haviland Wikipedia page, she is listed on the British Chambers of Commerce Wikipedia entry, which notes her position as Director General. Her growing public profile and recognition, however, suggest that a full page may soon be warranted.
Leadership Philosophy
Shevaun Haviland’s leadership is guided by a belief in business as a force for good. She consistently advocates for collaboration between corporations, government, and communities. Whether through her work in impact investing, inclusive economy initiatives, or the BCC, she demonstrates that commerce and social progress can go hand in hand.
Her philosophy can be summed up in three pillars:
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Collaboration – Building bridges across sectors.
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Innovation – Encouraging creativity and agility in business.
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Impact – Ensuring business contributes to wider social and economic wellbeing.
Conclusion
Shevaun Haviland’s career tells the story of a leader who has navigated diverse worlds – from Disney’s corporate halls to Downing Street’s political corridors, and finally to the helm of the British Chambers of Commerce. Her influence spans business, government, and social impact, making her one of the UK’s most significant business figures today.
At 53, with decades of experience behind her and prestigious honours like the CBE to her name, she continues to shape policies and advocate for British businesses. Whether through her role at the BCC, her board positions at ICC UK, or her work in impact investing, she exemplifies the qualities of a modern, visionary leader.
