Charity Leadership Scotland

Established in 2000, Charity Leadership Scotland is a membership organisation for voluntary sector CEOs, senior leaders, chairs and vice-chairs. It brings leaders together to develop deep relationships, providing support and challenge to help create change. It provides programmes, services, events and networks that support and strengthen leadership across the voluntary sector.

The programmes and services include:

• First Year in Post Programme – for new in post CEOs to guide, strengthen and provide peer connection

• Mentoring Programme – 1:1 dedicated mentor tailored to specific leader needs

• Leadership Exchange Programme – cross sectoral exchange for middle, senior and executive leaders to reflect on role and share best practice

• Transition Support Programme – for senior leaders considering retirement providing reassurance and signposting to navigate this new phase

• Interim Executive Service - to bridge a temporary gap in leadership and / or support to senior leaders in times of need or change

The events are a balance of virtual and in-person gatherings and include:

• Leader Learnings – brief, focused events where leaders hear directly from peers trying something new in their organisation

• CEO Support Forums – informal, safe spaces to share any issues/challenges CEOs may be facing

• Masterclasses – interactive, facilitated thematic sessions led by experts

The networks include:

• Women’s
• Cross-Border
• Chairs
• Partnership ventures

Mentoring

The Charity Leadership Scotland Mentoring Programme has been developed in line with Scottish Mentoring Network Quality Standards. It matches mentees with one of our experienced mentors offering leaders support with key issues, challenges and personal development. It enables individuals to reflect on their leadership role in a confidential space, exploring their personal and professional situation and gaining a fresh external perspective from an impartial, non-judgemental mentor. The mentee gains new skills, knowledge and confidence to perform at a higher level and is supported in setting goals to overcome any challenges.

"Mentoring has been just what I've needed - supportive, refreshing, reassuring! It provides a type of space and relationship that I don't have access to in my hectic workplace and has been a great opportunity to 'sense check' many of the things that I've encountered in the role. It's a very special and useful opportunity - so worthwhile!"