Chair, Board of Trustees

About PATH (Scotland)
PATH (Scotland) is a values led charity working to tackle racial inequality in employment, leadership and the social housing sector.
For over 30 years, we’ve supported racially minoritised communities through positive action traineeships, leadership development and employability support, while also influencing policy and practice across the sector.
We are a small organisation with a strong track record and a clear purpose. As we look ahead, strengthening our governance and shaping a sustainable future are key priorities.
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Role Purpose
The Chair provides leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that PATH is well governed, strategically focused, and aligned to its values.
You will work closely with the CEO and fellow trustees to support effective decision making, maintain oversight of organisational performance, and help guide PATH through its next phase.
The Chair’s focus is on enabling the Board to function well and ensuring the organisation stays true to its purpose.
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Key Responsibilities
Board Leadership and Governance
• Provide clear and inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees
• Ensure the Board fulfils its legal and governance responsibilities
• Promote a positive, respectful and constructive board culture
• Support trustees to contribute effectively and confidently
Strategic Oversight
• Work with the Board and CEO to shape and oversee PATH’s strategic direction
• Ensure decisions are aligned with the organisation’s mission and long term sustainability
• Support the Board to understand and respond to risks and opportunities
Supporting the CEO
• Act as a key point of contact for the CEO, offering support, challenge and reflection
• Maintain a constructive and balanced relationship, respecting the boundary between governance and operations
• Support CEO appraisal and development
Effective Board Meetings
• Plan and chair Board meetings and the AGM
• Ensure meetings are focused, inclusive and lead to clear decisions
• Work with the CEO to set agendas and ensure papers are clear and timely
Ambassadorial Role
• Represent PATH externally where appropriate
• Support relationship building with partners, stakeholders and potential funders
• Champion PATH’s work and values
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Support and Induction
We recognise that every Chair brings different experience. You will be supported through:
• An informal induction with the interim Chair and Board
• Access to key organisational documents and governance guidance
• Ongoing support and open communication
Our approach is collaborative and grounded. We want you to feel confident in the role, not overwhelmed by it.
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Our Values
Our work is guided by four core commitments:
• We put stakeholders first
• We are professional
• We are committed to excellence
• We are committed to equality and fairness
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Why this role matters now
PATH is at an important point. Strengthening governance, building partnerships and securing a sustainable future are all priorities.
The Chair will play a key role in helping the organisation navigate this, while staying rooted in its purpose and the communities it serves.
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Additional Information
• This is a voluntary (unpaid) position
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed

Experience required

Person Specification
We are looking for someone who can bring:
• Experience of leadership at board or senior level
• Strong strategic thinking and sound judgement
• The ability to facilitate discussion and guide collective decision making
• Confidence to offer both support and constructive challenge
• A commitment to anti racism, equity, fairness and tackling structural barriers
You do not need to have been a Chair before, but you should have a good understanding of governance and the role of a trustee.
We particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience in areas such as social housing, public sector leadership, finance, governance or policy.
Lived experience of racism, migration or marginalisation is valued.

Travel details

Trustee Meetings are generally in person at G51 3UU, with an online joining option provided. Travel expenses are reimbursed.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 16

Availability

Frequency & commitment

Time Commitment
• 4 Board meetings per year (Typically a Monday morning, 10.30am – 12.30pm)
• 1 annual strategy session
• Regular contact with the CEO (approx. 1–2 hours per month)
• Preparation time for meetings

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