Victim Support Scotland has appointed its new Chief Executive to lead the next phase of its development. Carolyn McLeod joins the organisation from the Scottish Legal Aid Board, where she is Director of Client Legal Services. Carolyn will take up her new post in September this year.

Victim Support Scotland is Scotland’s foremost charity supporting victims and witnesses of crimes, helping thousands of victims of crime every year. Carolyn has more than 20 years’ experience in Scotland’s justice system, including roles as a qualified solicitor. She brings a wealth of leadership, governance, and operational experience from senior positions across the Scottish Legal Aid Board, Audit Scotland, the Scottish Government, as well as the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. She also brings extensive third sector governance knowledge through her non-executive roles with the Scottish SPCA and the Rock Trust, providing a strong understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing charities operating in a complex public policy environment.

Carolyn McLeod said:

"I am honoured and privileged to have been appointed Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland. 

"Throughout my career, I have seen first-hand the profound and lasting impact that crime can have on individuals, families, and communities. “Victim Support Scotland plays a vital role in ensuring that people affected by crime receive the practical, emotional, and financial support they need, while also championing their rights, and influencing positive change across the justice system."

"I am excited about the opportunity to work alongside our staff, volunteers, Board of Trustees, and partners to build on the organisation’s strong foundations. 

"Together, we will continue to ensure that victims and witnesses remain at the heart of justice in Scotland, and that Victim Support Scotland remains a trusted voice, a leading advocate, and a source of support for every person who needs us."

James Pow, Chair of Victim Support Scotland, said: 

"I am absolutely delighted that Carolyn will be joining Victim Support Scotland as our new Chief Executive. 

"This is one of the most important leadership roles in Scotland’s third sector and we were determined to appoint an individual with the credibility, experience, and values required to lead the organisation into its next chapter. 

"She brings a rare combination of strategic leadership, deep understanding of Scotland’s justice landscape, strong governance experience, and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for people affected by crime. 

“I know she will be an outstanding leader for Victim Support Scotland, our staff and volunteers, and the victims and witnesses we exist to support."

Carolyn’s appointment follows a successful search run by LHH Executive in partnership with the charity.