Advertised from 15 May 2026

Role

Embracing difference, leading change

We are looking for a strong leader who is able to play a key role in our Executive Leadership Team – helping shape strategy for your own directorate but also contributing to the development and implementation of our corporate strategy. 

Leading your team and reporting to the Board as well as a diverse range of stakeholders, you will be able to communicate at all levels and take people with you. 

Leading the Centre for Practice, Policy and Research the role is about developing quality autism practice through internal research and external collaboration in order to influence national policies and strategies. We are looking for an exceptional leader who is comfortable communicating and networking at local, national and international levels and who can build strong networks and alliances.

The Director of the Centre for Practice, Policy and Research has leadership of the Centre and for the effective delivery and development of: 

• Voice and Participation 

• Research 

• Autism practice 

• Engaging and responding to national and local policies and strategies 

• Elevate – training and consultancy services 

• Learning and Development 

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Chief Executive, this role: 

• Works collaboratively to ensure the delivery of Scottish Autism’s vision, mission, values and strategy. 

• Has strategic leadership for the Centre for Practice, Policy and Research and ensures all areas directly support Scottish Autism’s strategy

• Maintains an external focus and builds appropriate relationships and partnerships. 

• Represents Scottish Autism, acting as an ambassador to enhance its reputation.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Input - Work with the Chief Executive and other ELT members to develop the short, medium and long-term strategies for all the functions of the Centre for Practice, Policy and Research.

Leadership - Leading across functions in driving advanced autism practice, a learning culture and reflective practice.

Delivery and Impact - Develop and embed internally innovation in autism practice in particular in Voice and Participation and new models of care and support which are recognised and appreciated by the people we support, regulators and other stakeholders.

Compliance and Control - Work with the Chief Executive, ELT and Board members to ensure effective governance and accountability across the Directorate.

Application notes

Visit our website to find out more

View our Director of the Centre for Practice, Policy and Research (CPPR) Recruitment pack for more information about Key Responsibilities and information about the role.

Interested candidates should provide their CV and covering letter to Danielle.Dowley@scottishautism.org by Thursday 4th June. Your covering letter should demonstrate your motivation and passion to work with Scottish Autism, as well as giving an overview of the skills and experience you will bring to this role.

You can contact Dorry McLaughlin, Chief Executive, on 07783 141732 if you would like an informal discussion about the role.

Closing date: 4th June 2026

Interview Dates: The recruitment and selection process will take place on two days – 16th June 2026 and 25th June 2026.

We welcome and encourage applications from those with lived experience of autism.

Be Here, Be You, Create change

Valuing diversity and promoting equal opportunities are at the heart of our vision, mission and values.

Registered charity number is SC009068