Human Development Scotland (HDS) are looking for a new Chair. We are looking for someone who has a strong sympathy for our charitable aims, the skills required to lead a team of committed trustees, and the vision to lead the charity through the next phase of its development.

About HDS

First registered in 2012, the core purpose of HDS is to relieve mental and emotional distress by increasing the availability of, and access to, high quality psychodynamic and psychoanalytic counselling and psychotherapy. We do this primarily by delivering post graduate courses in counselling and child psychotherapy and through the provision of therapeutic services. Other activities include the delivery of short Infant Mental Health courses. For more information visit hds.scot

Remuneration

The role of Chair is a voluntary position.

Time Commitment

There are currently six board meetings per year (including an AGM and two half day ‘away days’ for longer term planning) The current board comprises eight trustees. The Chair is expected to liaise regularly with the HDS Director, the charity’s management lead with the responsibility for the day-to-day management of all staff and services.

Main Responsibilities of the Chair

• To provide strategic leadership to the charity and its board.
• To monitor and respond appropriately to organisational risks and opportunities.
• To ensure that governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for the charity; and that they are within the agreed constitution and fully aligned with the purpose and core values of the organisation.
• To ensure that the board comprises individuals who have the appropriate mix of knowledge skills and aptitude for both the effective governance of the organisation and its strategic development. This includes the recruitment of new trustees at times when there are vacancies.
• To ensure the effective teamwork of the group of trustees.
• To act as a spokesperson and ambassador for HDS and its mission and objectives.
• To maintain and build relationships with external stakeholders.
• To chair meetings and manage the board effectively.
• To maintain a productive working relationship with the HDS Director.

Location

The main office premises for HDS are in central Glasgow. Meetings are held at these premises and also via Zoom or Teams.

Office premises and training suite: Human Development Scotland, 4th floor, Victoria Chambers,142 West Nile Street, Glasgow G1 2RQ