Chair & Non-Executive Appointments
Independent Perspective | Better Decisions
The most effective boards do more than govern. They challenge constructively, guide strategically and help organisations navigate complexity with confidence. At the centre of that is the Chair. An exceptional Chair creates the conditions for strong decision-making, productive debate and effective governance. They support executive teams whilst maintaining independence, balancing challenge with encouragement and short-term priorities with long-term ambition.
At Livingston James, we partner with organisations across the private, public and third sectors to appoint Chairs, Non-Executive Directors and Board Advisers who strengthen boards and contribute from day one.
What Makes an Effective Chair?
The role of the Chair has evolved significantly. Today’s Chairs are expected not only to provide oversight and governance, but also to support CEOs through increasing stakeholder expectations, organisational complexity and accelerating change.
The best Chairs bring perspective, judgement and the confidence to ask difficult questions when it matters most. They are not necessarily the most experienced individuals in the boardroom; they are the people capable of creating trust, encouraging healthy challenge and helping boards perform at their best.
Building Boards for the Future
As organisations evolve, so too must their boards.
The most effective boards bring together diverse experiences, perspectives and expertise, creating balanced discussion and better decision-making. Diversity of thought has become a critical component of board effectiveness, helping organisations respond to new challenges, opportunities and stakeholder expectations.
Impactful Board leaders bring:
- Independent judgement and constructive challenge
- Strategic perspective and long-term thinking
- Governance and board leadership expertise
- CEO support and succession guidance
- Credibility with stakeholders and communities
- Diverse experience and influential networks
- Resilience through growth, change and complexity
Appointments That Strengthen Organisations
Successful board appointments are about more than filling a position. They are about shaping board dynamics, strengthening governance and ensuring organisations have the experience and perspective needed to succeed.
Our role is to help clients identify individuals whose expertise, values and leadership style complement the existing board and support the future ambitions of the organisation.
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.
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Get in touch directly...
To find out more about our Chair and Non-Executive Director services, please contact the following consultants.
Featured Assignments for Non Executives...
Our Community Impact...
At Livingston James we strive to make an impact not only for our clients, candidates, and colleagues, but also for the communities of which we are a part. We invest our time, we invest our money, and we fundraise to support our wider community. Find out more.
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...
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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.
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 Retained by Blackwood Homes and Care to Appoint Chief Executive Officer
Livingston James are delighted to be supporting Blackwood Homes & Care in the appointment of its next Chief Executive. Blackwood Homes & Care, believes everyone should have the opportunity to live independently,

Livingston James is Delighted to be Partnering with Capital Credit Union to Appoint Chief Executive Officer
Livingston James is supporting Capital Credit Union in the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer. Serving more than 36,000 members across Scotland, Capital Credit Union is a purpose-led financial institution seeking a strategic leader to drive its next phase of growth.

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 Retained by Blackwood Homes and Care to Appoint Chief Executive Officer
Livingston James are delighted to be supporting Blackwood Homes & Care in the appointment of its next Chief Executive. Blackwood

Livingston James is Delighted to be Partnering with Capital Credit Union to Appoint Chief Executive Officer
Livingston James is supporting Capital Credit Union in the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer. Serving more than 36,000 members across Scotland, Capital Credit Union is a purpose-led financial institution seeking a strategic leader to drive its next phase of growth.

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.
The Herald – Scottish Income Tax and Why We Need to Cut Through the Noise