Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Full-Time 100000 - 110000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead Victim Support Scotland, shaping justice and support for victims across the nation.
  • Company: Victim Support Scotland, a leading charity advocating for victims' rights.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful leadership role, and the chance to make a real difference.
  • Why this job: Drive change in Scotland's justice system and support those affected by crime.
  • Qualifications: Proven strategic leader with experience in public accountability and governance.
  • Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to making a tangible impact every day.

The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 £ per year.

Victim Support Scotland (VSS) is the leading independent charity supporting people affected by crime across Scotland. Every year, thousands of victims, witnesses and families rely on us for emotional, practical and financial support during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. But we are more than a service provider. We are a national voice, a critical friend to government, an advocate for victims’ rights, and a catalyst for justice reform.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to lead our organisation into its next chapter.

The Opportunity

This is one of the most significant CEO roles in Scotland’s third sector. Reporting to the Chair and Board, the Chief Executive will provide visible, values-led leadership to an organisation of national scale and influence. You will lead more than 100 staff and hundreds of volunteers, steward significant public funding, and represent VSS at the highest levels of government, justice agencies, regulators and the media. You will ensure that Victim Support Scotland remains:

  • A trusted, influential voice within Scotland’s justice landscape.
  • A high-performing, trauma-informed organisation.
  • Financially sustainable and operationally robust.
  • Governed to the highest standards of charity law and regulatory compliance.

Above all, you will ensure that victims and witnesses remain at the heart of everything we do.

About You

We are looking for a proven, strategic leader with experience operating at Chief Executive (or equivalent senior) level within a complex, publicly accountable environment. You will bring:

  • Experience leading organisations with public profile and reputational sensitivity.
  • The credibility and presence to operate confidently at national level.
  • Demonstrable experience working closely with Boards and Trustees.
  • Strong knowledge of governance, risk and regulatory frameworks.
  • A track record of influencing senior stakeholders and policy-makers.
  • Experience overseeing the development, delivery and evaluation of services to ensure consistent, measurable impact at local and national scale.

You will combine strategic judgement with emotional intelligence. You will be politically astute, externally influential and values-driven, and you will lead with compassion in a sector that demands resilience, clarity and integrity.

Why This Role Matters

Crime affects lives in profound and lasting ways. The next Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland will help shape how Scotland responds - not only through high-quality support services, but by influencing how justice is delivered, how policy evolves, and how victims’ rights are upheld. This is leadership with purpose, responsibility and national significance.

If you are motivated by the opportunity to lead an organisation that makes a tangible difference every day - and to shape the future of victim support in Scotland - we would be delighted to hear from you.

To apply for the post, please send a tailored CV and covering letter to ScotlandExecutive@LHH.com by midnight on Sunday April 12, 2026. Please note that the covering letter should be no more than two pages of A4 and should summarise your relevant skills and experience and motivations for applying for this role. If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role then please contact Fizza Islam, LHH on +44 (0)141 220 6460 or email the above address.

Chief Executive Officer employer: VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND

Victim Support Scotland is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a vital charity that makes a significant impact on the lives of victims and witnesses across Scotland. With a strong commitment to values-led leadership, a supportive work culture, and opportunities for professional growth, VSS empowers its staff and volunteers to drive meaningful change in the justice landscape. Located in Glasgow/Edinburgh, this role not only provides competitive remuneration but also the chance to influence policy and advocate for victims' rights at the highest levels.
VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND

Contact Detail:

VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a CEO role. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to make new contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!

✨Tip Number 2

Show up and shine! If you get the chance to attend interviews or informal chats, be sure to bring your A-game. Prepare to discuss your vision for the organisation and how you can lead with compassion and integrity. Remember, it's all about making a lasting impression!

✨Tip Number 3

Research is key! Dive deep into Victim Support Scotland's mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only help you tailor your approach but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points during discussions!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and motivations for leading VSS. Let’s get you that dream job!

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer

Strategic Leadership
Public Profile Management
Governance Knowledge
Risk Management
Regulatory Compliance
Stakeholder Engagement
Policy Influence
Service Development and Evaluation
Emotional Intelligence
Political Acumen
Compassionate Leadership
Resilience
Integrity
Operational Robustness

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Chief Executive role at Victim Support Scotland. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how your background makes you the perfect fit!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be a two-page masterpiece! Use it to summarise your skills, experience, and motivations for applying. Remember, this is your chance to show us your passion for victim support and how you can lead our organisation into its next chapter.

Showcase Your Leadership Style: In both your CV and cover letter, make sure to showcase your leadership style. We’re looking for someone who leads with compassion and integrity, so share examples of how you've influenced change and supported teams in previous roles.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our mission at Victim Support Scotland. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND

✨Know Your Impact

Before the interview, take some time to reflect on how your previous experiences have made a difference in similar roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've influenced policy or improved services, as this will resonate with the values of Victim Support Scotland.

✨Understand the Landscape

Familiarise yourself with the current issues facing victims and witnesses in Scotland. Research recent developments in justice reform and be prepared to discuss how you would navigate these challenges as CEO. This shows your commitment and understanding of the sector.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

Think about your leadership approach and how it aligns with the values of Victim Support Scotland. Be ready to discuss how you lead with compassion and resilience, especially in high-pressure situations. This is crucial for a role that demands emotional intelligence.

✨Engage with the Board's Vision

Review the organisation's mission and strategic goals. During the interview, demonstrate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to achieving their objectives. Engaging with their vision shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in their mission.

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