The newly established Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland (AROS) has appointed Benaifer Bhandari and Jonathan Williams as co-CEOs.

Hosted by the University of Strathclyde in partnership with the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER), AROS is funded by the Scottish Government.

The University and CRER led its initial mobilisation phase, and are concluding an initial phase of recruitment for the senior management team and an independent Advisory Board.

Systemic racism

AROS is designed to challenge structural and systemic racism in Scotland’s public institutions and will be hosted by the University of Strathclyde for an initial two-year period. This work will be led and co-produced by communities adversely affected by racism, with a vision that public institutions work equally well for everyone, no matter their race or ethnicity.

Benaifer Bhandari, who will take up the post in early 2026, is the former CEO of Hopscotch Women’s Centre in London, which provides support services to minoritised women and their families.

Leadership experience

She has more than 25 years leadership and advocacy for racial and gender equity experience across the UK charity sector and beyond, and added: “I look forward to working closely with my co-CEO Jonathan, the Scottish Government, the University of Strathclyde and the Strategic Advisory Board to make sure AROS is firmly established as the leading voice in advancing racial justice across the nation – and hand in hand with our long standing and hard-working partners in this sector.”

Equity initiatives

Jonathan Williams has led, advised and been part of teams on major equity initiatives, guiding city councils, universities, and civic institutions to embed anti-racist and equitable practices at all levels.

Jonathan holds a Doctorate in Race and Education, and their expertise has informed local government programmes and educational institutions focused on embedding anti-racist practice, developing racially literate leadership, and transforming workplace culture.

The co-CEO, who will take up the role in December, said: “My commitment to anti-racist leadership has always been about action – ensuring that equity is not aspirational but operational. I’m honoured to join AROS at this pivotal moment, to work alongside my co-CEO Benaifer, the Strategic Advisory Board, and partners across Scotland to strengthen our shared mission of racial justice.

“Together, we will ensure that AROS stands as a national catalyst for systemic change, rooted in evidence, partnership, and community power.”

Pivotal moment

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to Benaifer Bhandari and Jonathan Williams on their appointments as the inaugural co-CEO’s of the Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland.

“This marks an exciting and pivotal moment for AROS – an institution with a visionary and urgent mandate: to drive systemic change, challenge institutional racism, and deliver improved outcomes for people and communities across Scotland.

“Both Benaifer and Jonathan bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the role and will be bold, visible champions for anti-racism in Scotland.

“I wish them every success when they take up their new roles and I look forward to working with them to lead the way in eradicating racism, inequality and injustice in Scotland.”