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.

Edinburgh’s iconic skyline representing board governance, strategic oversight and organisational resilience. Livingston James specialises in Chair and Non-Executive Appointments, connecting organisations across Scotland and the UK with experienced Chairs, Non-Executive Directors and board-level leaders.

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...

Recent News and Insights...

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

Steven Davis joins Livingston James Group Board of Non-Executive Directors

Family Business NED Forum Breakfast Event with Livingston James and KPMG

NED Forum with KPMG & Livingston James 2025

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...

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.