Chief executive of Virgin Money, Jayne-Anne Gadhia, is to enter the debate on how increased public engagement can help improve life in Scotland with a keynote speech at this year's Business in the Parliament conference at Holyrood next month.

Gadhia, who is also chairwoman of Scottish Business in the Community, said: "The referendum showed that politics matter - to people, society and to business.

"I am proud to live in a country which could have so full and so loud a debate about its future, and believe we now have the opportunity to build an even stronger Scotland."

Now in its ninth year, Business in the Parliament will bring together more than 200 politicians and business representatives on November 6-7. The theme of this year's conference is Shaping Scotland's Economic Future and topics for discussion including exporting, productivity and supporting a youth business boom.

First Minister Alex Salmond, Finance Aecretary John Swinney and Murdo Fraser, convener of the economy, energy and tourism committee, will also address the conference.

Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick said: "This annual event allows business people from across Scotland to discuss issues affecting their business with politicians. I look forward to chairing what is guaranteed to be an important opportunity for businesses and politicians to meet."

Fraser said: "Having just had an intense period of debate about Scotland's future, it is important that we channel this interest and have a frank discussion about how politicians and business can work together to achieve a bright economic future for Scotland."