Empowering CHAS’ vision: A conversation on leadership, purpose, and being part of CHAS’ ambition

Earlier this year, CHAS launched an ambitious new Strategic Plan—a bold commitment to support families from the moment they learn their child is seriously ill, helping them navigate the challenges ahead, and providing compassionate care through life, death, and grief. Now, CHAS stands at a pivotal moment, ready to recruit driven leaders to bring this vision to life. Among the key roles are an Appeal Director and Head of Partnership and Philanthropy.

In a recent discussion, Morven MacLean, CHAS’ Director of People and Strategy, sat down with Iain McAndrew, Director of Income Generation and Engagement, to explore how these roles will propel CHAS’ mission forward and transform children’s palliative care across Scotland.

Morven: Hi Iain, thank you for taking the time to chat.

Iain: It’s my pleasure, Morven. These roles are such an integral part of our future success—I’m glad to discuss the impact they’ll have on CHAS and the families we support.

M: Absolutely – let’s get started. Our new Strategic Plan lays out such a clear, compassionate purpose and ambition for CHAS. How do you see these roles advancing CHAS’ goal to make sure that no family in Scotland has to face the death of their child alone?

I: Our mission at CHAS is deeply rooted in being there for families during some of the most challenging times in their lives, as well as being there to help them create joyful memories that will last a lifetime. The Appeal Director and Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy are at the heart of that mission. These roles will lead efforts to secure the essential partnerships and funding that make our care possible—from the early days when a family first hears that their child may die young, through the ups and downs of their journey, to end-of-life care that enables families to be together and supported when it matters most.

We are looking for talented and passionate individuals who have the skills and experience to drive forward the funds needed to support our ambitious fundraising goal over the next five years – that goal being to raise £75m, of which £16.3m needs to be raised through our “It’s Not Just a Hospice Appeal”, to redesign Rachel House and transform the experience of children’s palliative care in Scotland.

In saying that, these roles aren’t just about raising funds; they’re about creating connections that allow us to be there every step of the way for families.

M: I can see why they’re so crucial! How will these positions specifically contribute to the success of the “It’s Not Just a Hospice Appeal” and to CHAS’s broader income generation strategy?

I: Great question. The “It’s Not Just a Hospice Appeal” is central to our Strategic Plan—it’s how we’re transforming children’s palliative care in Scotland. The Appeal Director and Head of Partnership and Philanthropy will be driving forces behind major donations and the partnerships that power this vision. Their work is essential to the appeal’s success and to securing long-term funding, not only for projects like the redevelopment of Rachel House but for all the ways CHAS supports families. We’re looking for individuals who are strategic, bold leaders, ready to bring fresh ideas and energy to generate the resources we need for our work.

M: And leadership is key, isn’t it? What does strong leadership in these roles mean for the wider team and for CHAS as a whole?

I: Absolutely, leadership in these roles has a ripple effect across our entire organisation. We’re incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated, high-achieving and award-winning team here at CHAS, and we’re seeking leaders who will inspire and elevate that talent. The Head of Partnership and Philanthropy and the Appeal Director will contribute to shaping a culture where our people feel motivated to innovate, set ambitious goals, and reach them. They’ll help build a team that supports and challenges each other to create real, meaningful change for the families we support.

M: Speaking of impact, what role do these positions play in strengthening CHAS’s reputation as a leader and trusted partner in children’s palliative care?

I: These roles are absolutely critical to positioning CHAS as the leader in children’s palliative care in Scotland. By building strong, enduring relationships with our donors and partners, they bring together the credibility, resources, and innovation that enable us to make transformative changes. Our Appeal Director and Head of Partnership and Philanthropy act as ambassadors for CHAS, aligning our mission with the values and priorities of our supporters. With their leadership, we’re able to expand our services, grow our presence, and ensure that every family in Scotland facing this journey knows they can count on us. These roles are essential to solidifying CHAS’s place as the go-to organisation in our field.

M: That’s such a powerful vision. Looking ahead, what are the long-term goals for these roles, beyond the initial capital projects like the Rachel House redevelopment?

I: For us, success isn’t just about meeting a fundraising target; it’s about building a foundation that supports CHAS for generations to come. We want these leaders to create a legacy of sustainable partnerships and resources, securing CHAS’s ability to care for families across Scotland today, and for generations to come. It’s about establishing CHAS as a resilient, forward-thinking organisation that will continue to support families as they need us, in whatever form that takes.

M: And for those considering these roles, why is it essential they not only have professional expertise but also share CHAS’s mission and values?

I: Working at CHAS isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. We need individuals who are not only skilled fundraisers and relationship-builders but also share our deep commitment to compassion, empathy, and respect. Every decision we make is guided by what’s best for the children and families we serve, so it’s crucial that our leaders feel that same level of dedication. We are guided by our values, which were created by the very families we support, and the staff, volunteers and partners who make our work possible. We’re looking for people who want to make a real difference each day, who understand the privilege and the responsibility of supporting families through such an intense and personal experience.

M: Thank you, Iain. This conversation truly underscores how pivotal these roles are to CHAS’s future.

I: Thank you, Morven. I’m hopeful that through these roles, we’ll find the right people who can join the Team and play their part in helping us deliver on our promise to the families we’re here to support.

M: With leaders in these roles, CHAS is well on its way to a future where no family in Scotland has to face the death of their child alone. If you’re ready to make a difference, consider joining CHAS on this vital mission.

If you are ready to be a part of this exciting future, apply today.