Not-for-Profit Executive Search

The not-for-profit sector plays a vital role in supporting individuals, communities and causes, often addressing some of society’s most complex challenges.

As organisations respond to increasing demand, changing funding landscapes and evolving expectations from beneficiaries, funders and stakeholders, values-led leadership has never been more important.

People taking part in a community fundraising event, representing social impact, engagement and charitable leadership. Livingston James provides not-for-profit executive search services to charities, foundations and third-sector organisations across Scotland and the UK.

At Livingston James, we work in partnership with charities, social enterprises, membership bodies, foundations, housing associations and other purpose-driven organisations to attract and appoint exceptional leaders.

We understand that success in this sector requires more than technical expertise alone. The most effective leaders combine strategic thinking and sound judgement with the ability to build relationships, inspire people and remain committed to the organisation’s mission, values and purpose.

Through a tailored and research-led search approach, we help organisations identify leaders who can strengthen governance, engage stakeholders, build partnerships, secure resources and guide organisations through opportunities and challenges.

Drawing on extensive networks across the not-for-profit sector and beyond, we connect clients with individuals whose experience, leadership style and personal values align with their ambitions.

Whether supporting leadership succession, executive and board appointments, organisational growth or periods of change, we help organisations find leaders who will make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the people, communities and causes they serve.

Contact Our Executive Search Specialists

We’d be delighted to provide further information. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.

Get in touch directly...

To find out more about our Not-for-Profit Executive Search services, please contact our Not-for-Profit specialist, Douglas Adam.

Featured Assignments...

Famous for excellence.

Our dynamic team has experience advising in a wide range of industries and sectors.  We have led and developed businesses from board level, managing people and processes across countless specialisms and geographies. We can bring a unique perspective to your business needs.

Recent Case Studies...

Appointing two pivotal senior leadership roles for Albyn School

Glasgow 2026 Case study: Appointing the Executive team to deliver a new kind of games.

J.W. Filshill Case Study: Advising a Scottish headquartered wholesale business to embrace technological advancements and maintain its position as a market leader

Bute Energy Case Study: Supporting an investment backed onshore wind developer attract industry leading talent

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GROUP CHAIR

JAMIE LIVINGSTON

At Livingston James, an unwavering focus on the impact of our appointments is at the heart of everything we do.  We work in partnership with our clients and candidates to bring together leadership teams that transform organisations and careers for the better. 

Jamie Livingston

Together we achieve more.

Livingston James Group comprises two bespoke sub brands: Livingston James – our executive search and leadership advisory practice, and Rutherford Cross – our specialist finance recruitment practice. This wider group structure complements our robust search and assessment process, allowing clients to access our deep-rooted network and expertise.

Contact Our Executive Search Specialists

We’d be delighted to provide further information. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.

Livingston James Partners with Inspiring Scotland to Appoint Board Trustees

Livingston James is delighted to be partnering with Inspiring Scotland to appoint Trustees to its Board as the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter.

Since 2008, Inspiring Scotland has worked towards a Scotland where everyone, no matter where they live or the circumstances they are born into, is given the chance to enjoy a happy, healthy life free from poverty or disadvantage.

Livingston James Partners with Inspiring Scotland to Appoint Board Trustees

Livingston James is delighted to be partnering with Inspiring Scotland to appoint Trustees to its Board as the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter.

Since 2008, Inspiring Scotland has worked towards a Scotland where everyone, no matter where they live or the circumstances they are born into, is given the chance to enjoy a happy, healthy life free from poverty or disadvantage.