Chief Executive Officer

Cyrenians is an independent Scottish Charity, operating since 1968, committed to a Public Health Approach to Homelessness Prevention. The Chief Executive Officer of Cyrenians is not only the key strategic leadership role within the organisation but also externally, with cross-public and private sector organisations, ministers and political stakeholders, and of course those we support. Cyrenians’ strong reputation with those we support, funders, commissioners and supporters is based on its solid foundations as a values-led, relationship-based organisation with excellent governance, robust financial planning and inspiring leadership. 

Our Mission:
To tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness through learning from lived experience, by delivering targeted services that focus on prevention, early intervention, and support into a home, and by influencing change in legislation and policy. 

Our Values: 

• Compassion: Everyone deserves a chance to change, however long that may take. 

• Respect: We value diversity and treat each other as equals. 

• Integrity: We commit to the highest quality of work with honesty and professionalism. 

• Innovation: We seek new and creative ways of working, considering our environmental impact. 

The CEO leads the organisation, taking overall responsibility for its strategic direction and its day-to-day operations. This includes leading the development and execution of the organisation’s strategy. The CEO takes overall responsibility for compliance with legislation and operating the organisation safely and responsibly. The CEO plays a key role in communicating strategy and performance, and for representing Cyrenians externally. 

To deliver vision and outstanding leadership for the charity; accountable to the Board for the impact of the work and long-term sustainability of the organisation. 

To develop a long-term strategy in collaboration with the Board; setting ambitious objectives for its delivery; ensuring the organisational structure is fit for purpose and continuing to develop Cyrenians reputation as a leader in its field. 

To build the awareness and understanding of the organisation, its ethos, vision and Public Health Approach to Homelessness Prevention across all sectors.

To develop and maintain an understanding of the changing social, economic and technological landscape, its impact on the drivers of homelessness and the new opportunities and challenges these changes bring .

Cyrenians are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader with strong commercial acumen and proven senior executive experience (CEO experience desirable). You’ll bring exceptional leadership, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to build credibility and foster positive relationships across the Board, leadership team, staff, and external stakeholders. 

Key attributes include: 

• Strategic thinking and adaptability 

• Sound financial understanding, commercial acumen, and results orientation 

• Integrity, high ethical standards, and alignment with Cyrenians’ values 

• Experience leading large teams as an Executive and communicating with impact 

• Interest in the third sector, homelessness, and emerging technologies (AI, cybersecurity) 

 The role is Edinburgh-based with travel across Cyrenians sites. 

At Cyrenians, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. Rooted in our core values of Compassion, Respect, Integrity, and Innovation, we believe that embracing diversity makes us stronger, more effective, and more reflective of the communities we serve. 

We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including but not limited to those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experience of homelessness or social exclusion. We are proud to be an organisation that is continually learning and evolving in how we support equality and equity for all. 

We are a values-led, people-centred employer, and we are committed to creating a working environment where difference is celebrated, everyone can thrive, and systemic barriers are challenged. 

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to ensure accessibility, then please let us know.