Executive Director

Scotland’s Finest Woods is welcoming applications for a new Executive Director, following the decision by by the current ED to step down after four years of excellent work promoting the very best of woods and forests in Scotland and the people that care for them.

The position of Executive Director is an excellent opportunity for an independent consultant or contractor to take a leadership role in an organisation with a strong profile, a growing reputation and positive momentum. The terms of engagement will be on a Contract for Services basis.

Scotland’s Finest Woods is a Scottish Charity and a Limited Company whose aim is to celebrate the contribution that woodlands and trees can make to the people of Scotland, its environment and economic prosperity. Each year, the charity runs the Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards programme which recognises and rewards an array of excellence in caring for Scotland’s woodland resource. Awards are presented at a prestigious ceremony which has for the last two years been held at the Scottish Parliament.

The responsibility of the Executive Director is to ensure successful delivery of the annual Awards programme of the highest quality with efficient use of resources. The Executive Director should ideally have a forestry background or come from a related field with an interest in forestry. You should understand what is required in running a small charity in Scotland and the role of the Company Secretary. You will have strong organisational, budget management and communication skills as well as good planning, time management and problem-solving skills. You will work with the charity’s trustees, sponsors, supporters, the volunteer competition judges and any other contractors supporting delivery of the Awards as well as other contacts relating to the running of the charity and company.

Although the time commitment is around 70 days a year, this is not evenly spread as there are periods of more concentrated activity. The contract value is expected to be £15,000 – £20,000 (negotiable) inclusive of any VAT per annum. This is a three-year contract, renewable annually subject to satisfactory delivery and funding.

Applications must be submitted by noon on Friday 15th May 2026. Interviews will take place in person or online late May/early June. The successful applicant is expected to start on 1st July 2026, initially overlapping with the present Executive Director for two months to provide an induction and handover. If you wish any further information about the role, you may phone or email the current Executive Director on [email protected] / 07954 847055 (please leave a message).