Ali has over 20 years’ experience in recruitment, partnering with some of the world’s best-known brands to build successful leadership teams. Previously MD of Hudson Scotland, Ali leverages his extensive personal leadership experience to advise organisations in the Manufacturing and Technology Sectors on how best to set up their leadership teams to thrive in current and future market conditions.
Ali graduated in Business & IT from Edinburgh Napier University where he still returns to advise on one of the business school’s professional steering groups. Following an analyst role with a global high-tech manufacturing firm, Ali worked in the recruitment sector for FTSE 250 and Fortune 500 businesses. Here he built his strong network of contacts before moving into his more operational leadership roles in recent years. Ali is passionate about reducing the digital skills and gender gap in Scotland’s tech sector. He’s been working with business leaders on the Digital Technology Education Charter to inspire school pupils to choose computing science and also supports the charity dresscode.
Ali leads on our D, E&I strategy and sees his role as an important one in which he can support organisations to develop authentic diversity initiatives by appointing the best modern leaders. He has worked as a trusted advisor to Scottish Development International’s inward investment team and has supported many organisations looking to set up their global business services in Scotland.
Outside of work, Ali enjoys spending time with his two children and playing tennis and golf. Although he does not profess to be the best, he has sometimes had his moments. Coaxed into running by his wife, Ali is always keen to throw himself into 10k’s to raise money or awareness for different charities.
The Livingston James team had a brilliant evening last month co-hosting an event alongside Scottish Cycling and Edrington.
Despite possessing skills increasingly valued in modern leadership, such as emotional intelligence, change leadership, and organisational capability, HR leaders rarely progress to CEO roles. Livingston James Director, Ali Shaw recently shared insights from our latest research report in association with EY: The Future CEO Report, and how these findings can support succession planning for HR leaders.
Acrux Gold is a vertically integrated precious metals business and the parent company of SGZ Cononish Limited, operator of Scotland’s only commercial gold and silver mine, with operations in the UK and South Africa.
Acrux Gold is appointing a Head of People & Culture to establish and lead the people function, supporting international growth and building the capability, culture and infrastructure required for long‑term operational success.
A global leader in retinal imaging technology, Optos designs and manufactures world‑leading devices that enable earlier and more comprehensive detection of retinal disease. This is a pivotal leadership role, providing strategic and operational ownership of quality across global operations, with full accountability for Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and the continued delivery of safe, compliant, and high‑quality products.
Livingston James Director, Ali Shaw, explores why the traditional pipeline to the top job is being challenged, how the growing importance of emotional intelligence and people-first leadership is reshaping expectations, and what HR professionals can do to position themselves as credible contenders for the CEO role.
Livingston James is Delighted to Partner with ICS Learn to Appoint Director of Sales.
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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.
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.
We’d be delighted to provide further information. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.
Forth Ports is seeking a strategic and passionate Group Head of Health and Safety to provide visible leadership across a complex, multi-site operation, ensuring best-in-class standards in safety, risk and compliance. You will influence at Executive and Board level, champion a culture of continuous improvement, and play a key role in supporting ongoing growth and transformation across the business.
This represents a rare opportunity to join a values-driven, family-owned business in a pivotal leadership role, offering real influence over strategic direction and the opportunity to shape the future of the finance function.
The Livingston James team had a brilliant evening last month co-hosting an event alongside Scottish Cycling and Edrington.
Forth Ports is seeking a strategic and passionate Group Head of Health and Safety to provide visible leadership across a complex, multi-site operation, ensuring best-in-class standards in safety, risk and compliance. You will influence at Executive and Board level, champion a culture of continuous improvement, and play a key role in supporting ongoing growth and transformation across the business.
This represents a rare opportunity to join a values-driven, family-owned business in a pivotal leadership role, offering real influence over strategic direction and the opportunity to shape the future of the finance function.
The Livingston James team had a brilliant evening last month co-hosting an event alongside Scottish Cycling and Edrington.
