The owner of the Guardian and the Observer has formally started the search for a new chair.
The Scott Trust has advertised for a replacement for Liz Forgan, who will stand down at the end of the year.
The trust is responsible for safeguarding the financial and editorial independence of the Guardian in perpetuity. It appoints the editor-in-chief of the Guardian and the non-executive chair and chief executive of Guardian Media Group, the publisher’s parent.
However, it does not seek involvement in day-to-day operational matters, instead monitoring and holding management to account for the overall strategy and financial management of Guardian Media Group.
“We wish to appoint an individual who embodies the values of the Guardian, the Observer and the Scott Trust and has a strong commitment to independent, open journalism,” the ad says.
“S/he will have exceptional leadership skills and significant experience at board level within a major public or commercial organisation. An understanding of the global media industry and digital landscape is essential, as is senior journalistic experience.”
The chair will be appointed for an initial period of five years, with the potential for a further term of five years.
The Scott Trust has advertised the role following the decision of Alan Rusbridger, the former editor-in-chief of the Guardian, not to take over from Forgan.
• This article was amended on 17 June 2016 to replace instances of the word “chairman” with “chair”.
