Case study: Chief Executive recruitment | Society of St James
We were delighted to support Society of St James on their Chief Executive recruitment. Learn more about our process!
We were tasked with finding senior leaders who could balance advocacy, stakeholder engagement, partnership building, income generation, influencing, and innovative thinking and bring the foresight, credibility, and experience to lead the organisation forward.
Process.
Peridot worked in close partnership with the board to create a recruitment campaign that would attract inclusive and collaborative leaders from a variety of relevant backgrounds.
Our targeted search focused on potential candidates from homelessness charities, community projects, social enterprises, community development and, more broadly, social justice organisations.
During our engagement, we also assessed suitability around values and fit. When presenting the longlist of final candidates, we highlighted the ones who met these criteria, along with having a clear strategic vision and the ability to translate passion into measurable impact.
Driven by our belief that diverse leadership underpins the acceleration of positive societal change for us all, diversity played a key factor in our search. We not only encouraged applicants with direct or transferable skills but also those with lived experience, which can bring empathy and authenticity to the role.
Category: Case studies
Consultant in charge
Clare Chesworth
Head of Social Justice
Clare Chesworth is Head of Social Justice at Peridot Partners. She brings extensive experience in recruitment, HR, and employability across diverse sectors, including events, education, and social justice. Over her recruitment career, she has honed invaluable skills such as active listening, building strong relationships, and fostering collaboration to deliver meaningful outcomes for clients and candidates consistently.
With a passion for supporting marginalised communities, Clare focuses particularly on improving employment opportunities for individuals with additional needs. Before joining Peridot, she designed and led a post-16 provision at a SEN school, preparing young people with autism for apprenticeships and employment. Her dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion has driven her throughout her career, both in her work and as a school governor.
At Peridot, Clare's focus has expanded to working with organisations tackling complex social issues like homelessness and housing. She has led high-profile recruitment campaigns for leadership roles at charities such as Caudwell Children, Society of St James, and YMCA Downslink, always striving to place the right people in roles where they can make a lasting impact.
Outside of work, Clare is deeply involved in her local community and enjoys theatre, cooking for loved ones, and cheering on her sons at rugby matches. Friendly and approachable, she combines her professional expertise with a genuine care for people and their potential.
