Paul Bott will take on the role with both Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans.
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans are delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Bott as the new Chair of the Board.
Paul brings over 30 years of experience in the charitable sector, with the last 15 years dedicated to roles as chief executive, trustee and chair of charities in England and Scotland, including Community Enterprise in Scotland and Edinburgh based charity Capella.
Paul has previously worked for charities supporting people with sight loss, including time as chief executive of Vista (The Royal Leicestershire, Rutland and Wycliffe Society for the Blind).
He is currently the chief executive of award-winning charity SJOG, the co-author of 'We're here to help' - a comprehensive guide on how to run a charity, and was recognised as the ‘Third Sector Leader of the Year’ in 2020.
Paul said "I am delighted to take up the post as the chair of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans. I’m looking forward to helping shape the future of two charitable organisations that have been of real help to people with sight loss in Scotland for over 230 years.
“There is more work to do in building an inclusive Scotland. We will support this by building a brighter future for everyone affected by sight loss through supporting research, influencing policy, and providing the resources and support that children, young people and adults with visual impairments, and their families, tell us truly make a difference in enhancing their independence and quality of life.
“Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans are ambitious for people with sight loss and it’s a great time to be involved in supporting that ambition.”
Craig Spalding, chief executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said: "We are delighted that Paul is joining our board at such an important time for the organisation as we work towards our new strategy for 2024 and beyond.
Paul's wealth of experience and insight will be invaluable as we navigate through this exciting phase of growth and development. I look forward to working closely with him and the rest of the board members as we look to expand our reach and help across Scotland.
“I would also like to thank our outgoing chair Michael Craig, who has been a trustee of both charities for over ten years, most recently spending over four years as chair.”
