Chief Executive Officer

Overview

As Chief Executive you will lead a nationally recognised, youth-led organisation to advance young people’s rights and influence policy in Scotland. You’ll set strategic direction, drive impact through partnerships with government, Parliament, funders and the third sector, and ensure sustainable governance and delivery. You’ll empower a diverse staff and a young Board, maintaining political impartiality while expanding the organisation’s reach and influence. This role offers the chance to shape youth leadership and social justice on a national scale.

Responsibilities

• Set and deliver SYP’s strategic direction aligned to the Strategic Plan and Dear Scotland’s Future manifesto
• Lead and develop the staff team and support a young, empowered Board
• Strengthen relationships with decision-makers, partners, funders and the wider youth sector
• Ensure governance, financial health, and organisational risk management for sustainability
• Act as a visible ambassador for SYP and advocate for young people’s rights while maintaining impartiality
• Influence policy development and practice across government, Parliament, local authorities and funders
• Foster an inclusive, values-led culture and support youth leadership and participation

Key requirements

• Experience delivering results within a complex organisation
• Strong strategic and people leadership skills
• Sound judgement; governance, finance and risk management understanding
• Understanding of how policy is developed and influenced in Scotland
• Commitment to young people’s rights and meaningful participation
• Ability to advise and support a young Board without taking ownership of its decisions
• Desirable: experience in youth work and building diverse leadership
• Willingness for flexible evening/weekend work

• values-led leadership
• excellent communication and openness
• ability to listen and create space for young people to lead
• governance and risk management
• finance and budgeting understanding
• policy development and influence in Scotland

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