Martin Sime will retire from the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations at the end of 2017
Martin Sime, chief executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), is set to retire after 26 years leading the organisation.
Sime joined the third sector support body in 1991 and has been credited with transforming the role of sector across public life. SCVO has more than 1,800 third sector members including charities, grassroots voluntary organisations and social enterprises.
He said: “It has been my privilege to hold such a fantastic position for over a quarter of a century and to have been part of the changing face of the third sector throughout that time.
“I have met and worked with some truly inspiring people and wonderful causes. I know that everyone at SCVO will help my successor to find their feet and contribute to addressing the many challenges and opportunities which continue to confront Scotland’s voluntary organisations.”
Neville Mackay, interim convener of SCVO, added: "SCVO is hugely indebted to Martin for his leadership and vision.
“His contribution has transformed the landscape in which Scotland’s third sector operates. Among his many achievements are driving positive change in charity law, charity finance and the esteem with which the sector is held by the public and parliament.
“We are grateful for his many accomplishments over more than 25 years, and wish him a long and happy retirement. He leaves with trustees’ gratitude and very best wishes for the future.”
Cabinet secretary for communities, social security and equalities, Angela Constance, said: “Martin has made a significant contribution to SCVO, to the third sector and to Scotland’s civic life over the past 25 years.
"Throughout this time Martin has worked tirelessly to enhance and promote the needs of the third sector as well as working closely with government, sharing his trusted and expert advice. I wish him well in his retirement.”
The process for recruiting a successor to Sime will be announced next week.
