Ellis Watson

Ellis Watson is a business leader known for his extensive experience in media, entertainment, and transport, driving transformation and growth for various brands. After leading the expansion of the global hit ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?’ format to over 100 countries as CEO of Celador from 2000 to 2003, Ellis Watson established himself as a dynamic leader in media and entertainment. His foundational career included a pivotal role as Marketing Director at The Sun, a flagship national newspaper, where he reported directly to Rupert Murdoch. He further broadened his executive experience as Managing Director of Mirror Group Newspapers from 2003 to 2005, overseeing a portfolio of numerous national and regional publications, and served on the Board of Menzies Distribution from 2005 to 2009.

Building on his extensive track record of driving growth and transformation across diverse sectors, Ellis Watson was appointed Chief Business Adviser to Scotland’s First Minister in 2023, a distinguished role he currently holds. In this capacity, he applies his proven expertise in high-level business strategy, organizational transformation, and media innovation to advise on national economic initiatives and shape key policy directions, continuing his impact at the highest levels of business and government.