New Chair appointed

Dyslexia Scotland has announced the appointment of Peter Lederer CBE as the new Chair of its Board of Directors

An accomplished business leader, Peter’s career includes roles as Chief Executive of Gleneagles, Chair of VisitScotland, and playing a key role in securing the Ryder Cup for Scotland in 2014.

Peter steps into the Chair role following seven years of service as a Director of Dyslexia Scotland. He succeeds David Shaw, whose 18-year tenure helped steer the charity from modest beginnings to its current position as a leading national organisation.

Under David’s stewardship, with former Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart as its President, Dyslexia Scotland influenced independent national reviews of education for children and young people with dyslexia in Scotland’s state schools; secured a cohort of high-profile Ambassadors including television presenter and wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin and Olympian Keith Cook; and became a recognised thought leader and teacher-training provider in inclusive educational practice.

Peter Lederer steps up to the role as the charity enters an ambitious new strategic cycle.

Peter said: “Dyslexia Scotland is a charity that is very close to my heart. I was 42 when I ‘discovered’ I was dyslexic. My wife noticed that our son, Matthew, was suddenly struggling at school and that his demeanour had changed. I will never forget the day I came home from work and read Matthew’s assessment. Change the name at the top of the report and it described my own school life. Finally, I understood why I had spent so many years feeling stupid, inadequate, anxious, withdrawn and confused.

“This is what drives me now. It is a great honour to take on this important leadership role and to work with a tremendous CEO and Board to help steer our course towards a dyslexia-friendly society where, I hope, no child has to experience the feelings I did during my own school days.”

Outgoing Chair David Shaw said: “My journey with Dyslexia Scotland has been a truly humbling one. I am constantly amazed by, and proud of, how this remarkably small organisation consistently punches above its weight. While I am sad to be stepping down, I do so confident that I leave the charity in good shape and with excellent leadership in place.”

Chief Executive of Dyslexia Scotland, Cathy Magee, added: “We are thrilled that Peter is taking on the role of Chair and I look forward to working closely with him as we navigate challenges and strive for new achievements together. David Shaw leaves a meaningful legacy and a strong platform on which we can continue to build, and we are extremely grateful to him for his long and effective service.”