Chair
Peridot Partners Closing date: Fri, 22 May 2026
- Full time
- Unpaid
- Apply now
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
The William Syson Foundation is seeking an exceptional candidate to join its Board of Trustees as Chair. Established in 2012 by Scottish banker and arts enthusiast William Syson, the Foundation is dedicated to the advancement of arts, heritage and culture in Scotland. Following a significant bequest in 2019, the Foundation now manages assets of approximately £14 million and distributes around £500,000 annually to support the sector.
This is a pivotal moment to lead a specialist arts sector grant-maker that has awarded nearly £3 million since 2020. As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership to a Board of four Trustees and a dedicated staff team of two, ensuring the delivery of a newly defined medium-term strategy. This strategy focuses on enriching lives through the delivery of professional arts, prioritising entrepreneurialism, skills retention and access for young people.
The Board plays an active role in grant-making, and the Chair will help guide discussion and decision-making in this area. We are therefore looking for a Chair who can combine strong governance with a deep commitment to the Scottish arts landscape and the ability to support the effective delivery of the Foundation's strategic priorities.
Time commitment: 1-1.5 days per month.
Job Requirements
As Chair, you will provide critical leadership to both the Board of Trustees and the staff team, ensuring the Foundation remains focused on its mission and supports the effective delivery of its strategic plan.
You will lead a Board that maintains high standards of governance, ensuring the charity operates legally and effectively as a Company Limited by Guarantee. Working alongside four fellow Trustees, you will exercise responsible stewardship over the Foundation's £14 million in assets to maintain long-term grant-making capabilities.
Job Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include:
Developing and monitoring the Foundation's strategic direction in collaboration with the staff.
Ensuring the Foundation remains focused on its mission and supports the effective delivery of its strategic plan.
Chairing quarterly Board meetings in Edinburgh, away days and sub-committees.
Managing the performance of the Foundation Manager and Grants Manager.
Representing the Foundation as an ambassador at functions and events.
Leading Trustee recruitment to strengthen the Board's skills and diversity.
Playing a central role in shaping and making grant decisions across our Small Grants and Core Support funds.
Your leadership will directly impact the sustainability and resilience of the Scottish arts sector.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Chair
- Salary: Unpaid
- Hours: Full time
- Artform: Music
- Role: Curation
- Contract: Temporary
- Closing date: Fri, 22 May 2026
- Location: Scotland
How to Apply
Please click the link to be directed to the Peridot Partners website for the full role description and details on how to apply.
Closing date: 9 a.m. Friday 22nd May
About Peridot Partners
Executive search, trustee recruitment and board development services driven by values.
Building lasting relationships and finding brilliant leaders.